The leader of the coup in Niger has put forth a proposal for a three-year transition of power. This announcement came after a meeting with a delegation of leaders from West African nations. In a stern warning, he cautioned that any assault on the nation would not be a simple endeavor for those involved.
General Abdourahmane Tchiani, addressing the nation via television late on Saturday, refrained from delving into the specifics of the proposed transition. He stated that the guiding principles for this transition would be determined within the next 30 days during a dialogue to be hosted by the ruling military council.
He emphasized, “Neither the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland nor the people of Niger want war, and remain open to dialogue.” This statement followed his initial meeting with representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niamey, the capital of Niger. However, he issued a clear warning, asserting, “But let us be clear: If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park some people seem to think.”
In response to the July 26 coup, ECOWAS has imposed stringent sanctions on Niger and initiated the deployment of a standby force with the aim of reinstating constitutional governance in the country. The regional bloc recently declared that an undisclosed “D-Day” had been agreed upon for potential military intervention, and 11 out of its 15 member states have committed troops to this operation.
During his 12-minute address, General Tchiani alleged that ECOWAS was making preparations to launch an offensive in Niger by forming an occupying army in collaboration with a foreign force. He vehemently denounced the sanctions imposed by the regional bloc, branding them as illegal and inhumane.
He emphasized, “I reaffirm here that our ambition is not to confiscate power. I also reaffirm our readiness to engage in any dialogue, as long as it takes into account the orientations desired by the proud and resilient people of Niger.”
It is worth noting that ECOWAS has adopted a firmer stance in response to Niger’s seventh coup in three years compared to previous incidents in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. Despite the looming threat of military intervention, the bloc continues to explore diplomatic avenues to reverse the power shift in Niger, recognizing the nation’s strategic significance due to its uranium and oil reserves, as well as its role as a focal point for foreign troops involved in combating armed groups.
