A fortnight after the military faction took control of Niger, they have begun implementing practical measures aimed at governing the nation.
Leading economist Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine spearheaded consultations regarding the establishment of a fresh government following his appointment as prime minister on Monday.
Mr. Zeine, a former economy and finance minister who left office in 2010 due to a prior military coup, initiated the move toward governance under the new regime. This shift coincided with their refusal to admit mediation teams from prominent entities like the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), the United Nations, and the African Union.
The newly established authorities of Niger justified their decision by citing “evident reasons of security in this atmosphere of menace.”
Ecowas had issued a threat to employ military force if the junta did not reinstate the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, by the designated Sunday deadline. However, the regional bloc did not take any action as the deadline passed.
In Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa and a crucial factor in potential intervention efforts in Niger, the Senate rejected President Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu’s request for approval to participate. President Tinubu also holds the position of Ecowas’s current chairman.
Amidst the ongoing crisis, Niger’s population of 25 million continues to face significant challenges in making ends meet.
Niger stands as one of the world’s most impoverished nations, with a majority of its citizens struggling to make a living. The populace has seemingly expressed strong support for the military takeover, demonstrating their backing through large-scale rallies in favor of the new leadership.
The strict economic and travel sanctions imposed by Ecowas as a response to the military seizure of power have led to a notable increase in food prices.
Erkmann Tchibozo, a shop owner from neighboring Benin conducting business in Niamey, noted the difficulty in importing goods for his airport-adjacent shop. He remarked, “If this continues, the situation will become exceedingly challenging.”
Former colonial power France seems to have shifted from its previously aggressive stance toward the new government in Niger.
On Tuesday, French diplomatic sources indicated that Paris still supports efforts to “restore democracy” in Niger, but believes that Ecowas should determine the most suitable approach for “reestablishing the constitutional order in Niger, whatever that decision may entail.”
Political analysts posit that the longer a resolution is delayed, the more challenging it will become to dislodge the newly established rulers.
