Niamey, Niger – (African Boulevard News) – The military junta in Niger has launched a scathing attack on France, labeling its actions as “blatant interference” in the country’s internal affairs. This comes as protestors gathered near a French military base in Niger, adding to the growing tensions between the two nations.
The military regime, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a coup earlier this year, accused France of supporting the ousted leader and attempting to undermine the junta’s authority. The junta called the French interference an “outrageous violation of our sovereignty.”
“We will not tolerate foreign powers meddling in our domestic affairs,” said General Ahmed Adamou, the junta’s spokesperson. “France’s actions are an insult to the people of Niger and a threat to our independence.”
The protest near the French military base in Niger’s capital, Niamey, was organized by supporters of the ousted president. They demanded his reinstatement and denounced the military junta’s rule. The junta sees France’s failure to condemn the protest as further evidence of its support for the ousted leader.
France has long maintained a military presence in Niger, primarily to combat jihadist groups operating in the Sahel region. However, the junta argues that France’s involvement in domestic politics undermines the country’s stability.
“The French claim to be our ally in the fight against terrorism, yet they are actively undermining our government and empowering our enemies,” said General Adamou. “We demand that France immediately withdraw its support for the ousted president and respect our sovereignty.”
France has not yet responded to the junta’s accusations, but the tension between the two nations is expected to escalate further if the allegations persist. The international community, including the African Union and the United Nations, has called for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Niger.
Experts argue that France’s position in Niger is complex, as it is torn between supporting the junta to maintain stability and maintaining its anti-terrorism efforts in the region. They warn that this delicate balancing act could have far-reaching consequences for both Niger and France.
“The situation in Niger is highly volatile, and any misstep by France could have severe repercussions,” said Dr. Aisha Suleiman, an expert on African politics. “It is crucial for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and find a peaceful solution that respects the will of the Nigerien people.”
As the standoff between the military junta and France continues, the people of Niger anxiously wait for a resolution that will bring stability and allow them to determine their own future without foreign interference.
