In a televised address on Saturday night, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of the Niger junta, revealed that the military is committed to handing over power to a civilian government within the next three years. This announcement came after Tchiani held discussions with an Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) delegation led by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).
General Tchiani further stated that, within a month, the junta will establish a committee to study and draft a new constitution for the country, emphasizing their dedication to a structured transition process. While asserting Niger’s preference for peaceful resolutions, Tchiani mentioned that the nation is prepared to defend itself if the situation necessitates it, but reiterated that the door for negotiation remains open.
As of now, there has been no official response from ECOWAS regarding the junta leader’s speech. However, General Abdulsalami Abubakar is expected to brief the regional bloc on the outcomes of the meeting.
Additionally, Niger’s military-appointed Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, reassured that the deposed president, Mohamed Bazoum, would be kept safe and unharmed. This assurance comes in response to concerns raised by President Bola Tinubu about Bazoum’s health deteriorating while under house arrest.
The situation in Niger continues to evolve, with thousands of volunteers reportedly registering as civilian auxiliaries who could potentially support the army. Meanwhile, ECOWAS has expressed readiness to intervene if required, following discussions among the regional bloc’s military chiefs during a two-day meeting in Accra, Ghana.
This development underscores the dynamic and complex landscape in Niger as the country navigates through a period of transition and potential change in governance.
