NIGER: Hama Amadou to save Niger?
Former prime minister Hama Amadou returned to Niamey on 12 September. Founder of the Nigerien Democratic Movement for an African Federation party, the leading Niger opposition figure had been in exile in France for two years.
He was imprisoned after the February 2021 post-election demonstrations in Niamey, which challenged Mohamed Bazoum’s victory.
His return comes after the junta announced a future inclusive national dialogue.
A few days ago, the prime minister-designate of the ruling junta, Ali Zeine, deemed it normal for him to return to the country to take part in the effort to mobilise all forces.
Interviewed in Monde Afrique, Hama Amadou said he was returning home because Niger was under threat. He confided that he would be president at the end of the transition if his supporters asked him to be.
For the moment “he needs to rest before being in contact with his supporters”, his entourage suggests.
Given the current situation in Niger, Hama Amadou faces a major challenge. A great defender of democracy, he could be useful to the junta during the transition.
Niger needs all its sons and daughters to defend its homeland.
Read also/NIGER: Consular official arrested in Niamey: France plans to hush up the case by ordering his unconditional release
Olivier TOE
