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Niger’s Military Leader Assumes Presidential Role Following Coup
Niger’s military government has formally installed General Abdourahamane Tchiani as the president, initiating a transitional period intended to last five years.
In 2023, Gen Tchiani orchestrated the ousting of the democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, and has since directed the nation’s political affairs.
On Wednesday, Gen Tchiani assumed the presidential office under a revised national charter, which supersedes the previous constitution of Niger. The charter introduces significant changes, including the dissolution of all political parties, an action closer to solidifying military control over the government.
During the formal inauguration in Niamey, the capital, Gen Tchiani expressed gratitude for his new military accolade, stating, “I receive this distinction with great humility… I will strive to live up to the trust placed in me.” His promotion to the rank of army general underscores his consolidation of power.
The shift towards a democratic framework is purportedly aligned with recommendations from a recently established commission, following extensive national dialogues. However, the new charter specifies that the five-year transition could be adjusted based on the prevailing security conditions within the country.
Niger has faced considerable challenges from jihadist groups, a crisis which the military leadership cited as justification for their coup. This instability echoes a broader trend within the region, where several neighboring nations, such as Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, have also been taken over by military juntas following similar justifications.
These countries have notably distanced themselves from France, their former colonial ruler, and have sought to cultivate ties with Russia. Additionally, with the exception of Guinea, they have distanced themselves from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas).
Niger’s previous relations with Ecowas deteriorated after the junta’s initial proposal of a three-year democratic transition, which the bloc labeled as a “provocation” and threatened military intervention, although this threat was later withdrawn.
In the meantime, Gen Tchiani’s government has initiated legal proceedings against former President Bazoum, accusing him of high treason and jeopardizing national security. Bazoum remains under confinement within the presidential palace alongside his wife, while their son has been temporarily released as of last January.
As reported by the state-run news agency ANP, Gen Tchiani emphasized that the newly crafted charter harmonizes with Niger’s traditional constitutional frameworks while incorporating “unprecedented measures to protect our natural resources, ensuring that Nigeriens truly benefit from the exploitation of their wealth.”
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