Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of the mutineers who seized power in Niger, stated on Saturday that while Niger does not seek war, the country is prepared to defend itself if the need arises. Tchiani emphasized that neither the army nor the people of Niger desire conflict but are determined to resist any aggression. He highlighted that Niger holds a pivotal role in containing regional destabilization due to increased terrorist activities.
Tchiani addressed the sanctions imposed on his country, suggesting that they were intended to pressure the rebels rather than offer a resolution. He further clarified that the rebels’ goal is not to seize power but to find a solution that aligns with the interests of the people.
Following the coup on July 26, in which former President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted and detained by Tchiani’s group, ECOWAS suspended financial aid to Niger, froze rebel assets, and instituted a ban on commercial flights to and from the country. The situation escalated to discussions about potential military intervention to reinstate Bazoum.
An ECOWAS delegation recently arrived in Niger to assess Bazoum’s detention conditions and held talks with both the deposed president and Gen. Tchiani. While tensions are high and the political situation remains complex, the Nigerien leadership appears to be emphasizing their desire for a peaceful resolution while asserting their readiness to defend their nation if necessary.
