Africa
International Community Increases Pressure as Niger Coup Leaders Miss Deadline to Restore Democracy
The region faces mounting challenges as essential services are disrupted, amplifying the urgency for a resolution to the political turmoil.
As the deadline of 6 August looms, Niger’s military coup leaders are under increasing pressure to release and reinstate democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum, with international observers closely watching for signs of progress in restoring constitutional order.
The regional bloc ECOWAS has set a critical cut-off date of 6 August for Niger’s military coup leaders to meet demands and reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum. Failure to comply could lead to foreign military intervention, intensifying the urgency to restore democratic governance.
Niamey residents, including Bachirou Seyni, fervently hope to avert such an outcome, praying for a peaceful resolution to the crisis and the restoration of stability in Niger.
“We’re on the road to democracy and in a democracy it’s talks that have to take place, so there’s no need to take up arms for that.”
Initially inclined towards sanctions, ECOWAS appeared reluctant for military intervention in Niger’s crisis. However, a shift emerged as the bloc’s military leaders disclosed a contingency plan for armed invasion, should the coup leaders persist, underscoring the escalating tensions and potential for intervention.
Ben Hassane Salha who also lives in the capital said, “I don’t think that attacking Niger in the near future will be limited to economic sanctions, and the Nigerien people will suffer at first.”
Life is already getting harder as economic sanctions have led to price rises for basic products like rice and vegetables.
Farida Ide Zakari has struggled to do her usual shop said, “We’re very worried because the banks have been closed, we can no longer withdraw money and there’s a rise in food prices.
“Now because of the closure of borders and bank accounts, subsistence is getting harder and harder in Niamey, really.”
With closed borders and Nigeria’s electricity supply severed, Niger grapples with prolonged power cuts, affecting daily life. The region faces mounting challenges as essential services are disrupted, amplifying the urgency for a resolution to the political turmoil.