A high-level delegation representing ECOWAS, the main regional organization of West Africa, journeyed to Niamey, the capital of Niger, on Saturday. The purpose of their visit was to engage in discussions with the junta that had taken control following the coup on July 26th. Sources within ECOWAS shared this information with news outlets, highlighting the organization’s commitment to seeking peaceful solutions to the current crisis.
President Mohamed Bazoum’s removal from office prompted ECOWAS to take action, advocating for a non-violent resolution. However, recent statements by defense leaders on Friday conveyed the readiness to employ military intervention should the coup leaders persist in disregarding international demands for them to step down.
The delegation, led by ECOWAS President Omar Touray, arrived at Niamey airport and was received by the junta-appointed prime minister. Subsequent to this reception, confidential sources revealed that discussions would take place between the delegation and the self-declared authorities.
The junta has not yet provided an official statement on these developments.
Notably, ECOWAS has adopted a firmer stance concerning the Niger coup than in previous similar incidents within the region, marking the seventh such occurrence in the past three years. The organization’s credibility is at stake due to its prior declaration of zero tolerance for further coup d’états.
While the utilization of force remains a measure of last resort, ECOWAS Commissioner Abdel-Fatau Musah emphasized the preparedness of West African forces to intervene should all peaceful options be exhausted. Musah criticized the junta’s intention to subject President Bazoum to trial for treason, deeming it ironic considering the context. International bodies like the United Nations, European Union, and ECOWAS itself have expressed concerns about the conditions of Bazoum’s detainment.
In this tense situation, uncertainties prevail over whether the junta will relinquish control and restore power to President Bazoum. The apprehension of using force stems from fears that such action might result in harm to Bazoum. The future outcome remains uncertain.
Will the military return power to President Bazoum, or do you believe ECOWAS shouldn’t bother, given the unlikely actions of the coup leaders?
