Africa: Military intervention in Niger, the CNSP takes steps to fight back
The new authorities in Niger are clearly taking steps to counter a possible military operation by ECOWAS, backed by France, to free deposed president Mohamed Bazoum. The leaders of the CNSP are stepping up security along the border with Benin, a country that has agreed to use its territory as a base for mercenaries to attack Niger.
This comes shortly after the French plot was dismantled. France had been preparing an attack on Niger by gathering forces and equipment in several West African countries.
A few weeks ago, Senegal announced the deployment of troops to Benin in preparation for a possible intervention in Niger.
A total of 900 soldiers from the Land of Teranga will be deployed in Niger. A large consignment of military equipment will also be transported to Cotonou. Security controls must be strict these days at border level.
No suspicious action should escape the attention of the Niger authorities.
In the days or weeks to come, delegations will be sent to Niger to try to hide from the military, putting forward the story of democracy.
The leaders of the CNSP must not give in to these attempts at manipulation. Niger’s sovereignty is worth more than poisoned democracy.
Fayçal Badie
