Niger’s airspace closed on Sunday as a deadline imposed by a group of African countries for Nigerien military coup leaders to release power and reinstate the country’s democratically-elected president expired. The closure was due to ”the threat of intervention from neighboring countries,” according to a video statement by Nigerien coup leader Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane. The military coup in Niger took place in late July, with President Mohamed Bazoum being seized by members of the presidential guard and national institutions being shut down. Protesters from both sides eventually took to the streets, including thousands who support the military coup.
However, the coup leaders’ actions were quickly condemned by the United States, some Western nations, and a group of western African countries, which threatened force. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional bloc, warned that if the military junta does not stand down, it could face possible military intervention and gave them until Sunday to cede power. The group stated that it would “take all measures necessary to restore constitutional order,” including using force, if the junta remains in charge.
In addition to the threat of military intervention, ECOWAS imposed a travel ban and asset freeze for the military officials involved in the coup attempt, as well as their family members and civilians who accept to participate in any institutions or government established by the officials. France and the European Union also cut off financial aid to Niger following the coup.
On Sunday afternoon, thousands of people rallied in Niamey, Niger’s capital, to show their support for the junta and voice their opposition against the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS. The junta also warned on state television that any military intervention would be met with “an immediate and unannounced response by Niger’s defense and security forces.”
Ahead of Sunday’s deadline, ECOWAS leaders met in Nigeria last week to organize a collective response to the coup and plan a potential military intervention as a last resort. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, stated that all the necessary elements for an intervention have been worked out, including timing, resources, and deployment.
CNN’s Stephanie Busari contributed to this report.
How does the closure of Niger’s airspace impact the potential for further instability and violence in the country
Ng suspended. Since then, there have been ongoing efforts by regional and international actors to restore democratic order in the country.
On Sunday, a deadline set by a group of African countries for the Nigerien military coup leaders to release power and reinstate the democratically-elected president, expired. As a result, Niger’s airspace was closed in anticipation of potential intervention from neighboring countries.
Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, the leader of the coup, explained in a video statement that they closed the airspace due to the threat of intervention. The closure serves as a signal that the coup leaders are not willing to yield power without a fight.
The military coup in Niger occurred in late July, when President Mohamed Bazoum was seized by members of the presidential guard and several national institutions were suspended. This power grab sparked concerns among neighboring African countries and the international community, who view such actions as a threat to democracy and stability in the region.
Since then, multiple initiatives have been undertaken to pressure the Nigerien coup leaders into restoring democratic governance. African countries, supported by regional organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), have been at the forefront of mediating negotiations and calling for a peaceful transition of power.
However, with the expiration of the deadline and the closure of Niger’s airspace, it appears that the coup leaders are prepared to resist external pressure. This raises concerns about the potential for further instability and violence in Niger, as neighboring countries and the international community may resort to more forceful measures to restore democracy.
The closure of Niger’s airspace is a notable development in the ongoing crisis, as it restricts the country’s ability to interact with the outside world and increases its isolation. It also serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences that can arise from political unrest and military takeovers.
The international community, particularly African countries and regional organizations, must now carefully consider their next steps in addressing the situation in Niger. Diplomatic efforts may need to be strengthened, and additional pressure may be applied to convince the coup leaders to relinquish power and reinstate democratic governance.
Ultimately, the fate of Niger lies in the hands of its military coup leaders, who have the power to either respect democratic principles or further plunge the country into turmoil. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all actors involved to prioritize the well-being of the Nigerien people and work towards a peaceful resolution that upholds democratic values.
This is a crucial moment for Niger’s democracy. The international community must remain vigilant and support the restoration of constitutional order.
It’s unfortunate to see another coup attempt in Niger. Let’s hope for a peaceful resolution and return to democratic rule.