Niger’s military-led government has announced plans to hold a national convention from February 15 to 19 to determine the length of the country’s political transition following the 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
The interior ministry disclosed the dates in a statement aired on state television overnight Saturday, confirming that the gathering will take place in the capital, Niamey.
After seizing power in August 2023, General Abdourahamane Tiani initially proposed an inclusive national dialogue to establish governance priorities and outline the transition period, suggesting a maximum duration of three years.
However, he has not revisited the subject since.
Preliminary consultations were conducted across Niger’s eight regions last year, laying the groundwork for the upcoming discussions.
A national commission, formed by presidential decree, has been tasked with overseeing the convention and drafting a preliminary version of the transition charter.
Following the convention, officials will have three weeks to finalise a report for General Tiani’s review.
The commission is led by traditional leader Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingareye and includes former ministers, academics, legal experts, military personnel, presidential advisors, religious leaders, and civil society representatives.
The body operates through five subcommittees, each addressing key themes such as national reconciliation, security, political and institutional reforms, and human rights.
Niger joins a growing list of Sahel nations where military coups have reshaped governance in recent years, with many leaders citing ongoing jihadist insurgencies as justification for their takeovers.
