Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum has been ousted by the very presidential guards who were meant to protect and uphold his office. These guards have suspended the country’s constitution and installed Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani as the new head of state.
Niger, located in the Sahel – a region plagued by jihadists and military regimes, is an essential player in West Africa for several reasons. It has been a beacon of relative democratic stability, distinguishing itself from neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, which have already faced military coups. Additionally, Niger hosts French and US military bases, making it a crucial partner in the fight against Islamist insurgents. Economically, the country is rich in uranium, accounting for 7% of global supplies.
The coup is reportedly driven by the deteriorating security situation in the region, with violent Islamist groups gaining ground in the tri-border area between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Climate change is also contributing to desertification, adding to the region’s instability.
The international community has condemned the coup, with France, the African Union, ECOWAS, the EU, and the UN calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order and a democratically-elected civilian government. However, Russian influence, represented by the Wagner mercenary group, has been seen as potentially exerting a malign influence in Niger.
The coup’s implications could lead Niger to reconsider its ties with Western allies and potentially shift towards Russia, following the footsteps of Burkina Faso and Mali after their military coups. The global consequences may impact migration and counter-trafficking efforts, questioning Niger’s role in collaborating with European countries to address migration issues.
The coup has plunged Niger into political turmoil, raising concerns about the country’s future stability and international relations in the volatile Sahel region.