NIAMEY, Niger — General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of Niger’s military junta, has pledged to transition the nation to a civilian government within three years.
This assurance came during a televised address on Saturday, August 19, 2023, following intensive deliberations with an ECOWAS delegation spearheaded by retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Tchiani announced the junta’s intent to form a committee dedicated to studying and drafting a new constitution within the coming month.
Despite emphasizing Niger’s aversion to conflict, he clearly asserted the nation’s preparedness to defend its sovereignty.
ALSO READ: Niger Coup: ‘Bola Tinubu Lacks Moral Authority to Lead ECOWAS’ – Labour Party
Simultaneously, the junta leader signaled his willingness for negotiations, leaving the door open for potential diplomatic solutions.
While awaiting an official statement from ECOWAS regarding the junta leader’s address, General Abdulsalami Abubakar is poised to provide the regional group with a comprehensive briefing on the discussions’ outcome.
In the backdrop of global concern for the well-being of the detained president, Mohamed Bazoum, Niger’s military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, assured his safety.
This response followed a stern warning from Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, cautioning the junta about the severe repercussions that might ensue should Bazoum’s health suffer during his confinement.
Speaking to journalists, Lamine Zeine remarked, “Nothing will happen to him, because we don’t have a tradition of violence in Niger.”
The junta, unwavering in its stance, continues to denounce any “illegal aggression.” This firm stance coincides with reports from Radio France International that thousands in Niamey have rallied, registering as civilian auxiliaries prepared to support the army.
The atmosphere in Niger remains tense as ECOWAS military chiefs, after their assembly in Ghana’s capital, Accra, express readiness to intervene at a moment’s notice.
The international community and regional players will keenly observe how this intricate political scenario unfolds in the coming days.
