Niger: the people express their sovereignty

Sunday morning, several thousand Nigeriens demonstrated in the streets of Niamey in support of the putchists, while the threat of an ECOWAS military intervention still hangs over Niger.

After Paris’s refusal to take note of the expulsion of its ambassador from Niamey, Niger has indicated that it does not need authorization to have diplomat Sylvain Itté leave within 48 hours.

In a press release, the Nigerien Ministry of Foreign Affairs «reminds those who are agitated and who still doubt the expression of its sovereign will, that Niger has no need of an authorization or an interpretation of the Vienna Convention of 1961, to exercise its prerogatives and have the French ambassador Sylvain Itté leave after this 48-hour period». Following «the refusal of the French ambassador in Niamey to respond to the invitation« of the ministry »for an interview« on Friday »and other actions by the French government contrary to the interests of Niger. The authorities «decided to withdraw their consent to Mr. Sylvain Itte and to ask him to leave Nigerien terr

Friday evening, the French ambassador Sylvain Itté was asked to leave Nigerien territory within 48 hours, because of the «actions of the French government, contrary to the interests of Niger».

But immediately Paris refuted this decision, considering that it recognized only the sole authority of President Mohamed Bazoum, overthrown on July 26, 2023 by the putchists .

And as during each demonstration favorable to the new regime, many slogans hostile to France and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were hammered on placards, noted AFP journalists. «No to sanctions», «halt to military intervention», could be read, in particular, on the Place of concertation in Niamey. Russian flags were also waved.

The National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP) in power, headed by General Abdourahamane Tiani, says he wants to put an end to French imperialism.

The decision to expel the french ambassador is the culmination of a month of demonstrations, decisions and declarations hostile to french politics since the coup against Mr. Bazoum, still detained with part of his family.

Daouda TRAORE