In a shocking turn of events, soldiers in Niger have staged a coup, claiming to have removed countrie’s democratically-elected President Mohamed Bazoum from power. The coup attempt took place late on Wednesday, when members of the presidential guard detained President Bazoum at his official residence.
The coup was announced live on national television in Niger, where Colonel Amadou Abdramane, alongside his fellow soldiers and officers, declared the end of President Bajoum’s rule.
Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, speaking on behalf of the mutineers, cited reasons for the coup, including the continuous deterioration in the security situation and the perceived mismanagement of social and economic issues in the country. He stated that the defense and security forces have decided to end the existing regime.
As the coup unfolded, Abdramane, accompanied by nine other officers in army uniform, closed the country’s borders and declared a nationwide curfew. Additionally, he announced the suspension of all institutions within the country.
International Response:
The international community has responded swiftly to the crisis. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a statement, expressed the firm support of the United States for President Bazoum as the democratically elected leader of Niger.
In the wake of the coup, the United States has strongly condemned the seizure of power in Niger. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized that President Bajoum was democratically elected and stressed the importance of upholding the constitutional system. The US government has called for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum and is closely monitoring the situation in Niger through constant communication with the US Embassy in Niamey.
Additionally, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has assured the President of the United Nations’ full backing amidst the political upheaval. However, the Niger army has warned against foreign interference and threatened consequences for any such intervention.
The African Union had earlier condemned the attempted coup, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the chairman of the Commission for the African Union and ECOWAS, asserted that the regional bloc will oppose any attempt to oust Niger’s government.
Niger and Nigeria are the neighboring countries with distinct geographical characteristics. Niger is a landlocked country, whereas Nigeria is situated on the sea coast.
The situation in Niger remains tense as the international community closely monitors the developments in the country. Further updates are awaited as the events continue to unfold.
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