Niger: Anti-French movement/thousands of Nigeriens protest against ECOWAS’ excesses
An anti-French movement is invading the whole Niger. Following the extraordinary summit held in Abuja regarding the Niger crisis, thousands of Nigeriens took to the streets of the capital, Niamey, on Friday, August 11, 2023, to express unwavering support for the ruling junta and to denounce the decisions of ECOWAS, which they believe are dictated by France. The regional institution has recently authorized the use of military force to reinstate Mohamed Bazoum as the country’s leader, who was ousted on July 26 by elements of the presidential guard.
Gathered near the French military base in Niamey, protesters chanted anti-French slogans and held up signs that read “Down with France, down with ECOWAS.”
Waving Russian flags alongside their own national flag, the demonstrators demonstrated their support for the new authorities, especially General Abdourahamane Tchiani. They criticized the manipulation of ECOWAS by France, which influences its decisions.
What could justify the enhancement of this anti-French movement in Niger? Indeed, on Thursday, August 10, the French government declared its approval of the military option in Niger to remove the CNSP authorities and restore constitutional order, while also expressing a desire to achieve their goals through diplomatic means.
Neil Camara
