Niamey, Niger – (African Boulevard News) – In a show of solidarity and support, close to 30,000 Niger coup supporters gathered in Niamey over the weekend. The stadium, which bears the name of Seyni Kountche, the leader of Niger’s first coup d’état in 1974, was teeming with enthusiastic supporters, creating an electrifying and festive atmosphere.
The event, organized by the Movement for the Safeguard of Democracy and the Republic (MSDR), aimed to rally behind the recent military takeover that saw President Mohamed Bazoum ousted from power. It was a clear demonstration of the people’s desire for change and their discontent with the current administration.
The turnout at the stadium was overwhelming, with thousands of supporters filling the stands, waving flags, and chanting slogans in support of the coup. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and hope as the crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of the MSDR leaders.
One of the key speakers at the gathering was General Salou Djibo, the man who led the 2010 military coup in Niger. He addressed the crowd, expressing his belief in the need for a new leadership and the importance of the military’s role in bringing about change.
“We are here today to show our support for the military and their efforts to restore stability and democracy in our country,” General Djibo said. “We have seen the failures of the previous government, and we believe that change is necessary for the progress and development of our nation.”
The event also served as a platform for various stakeholders to voice their concerns and hopes for the future. Civil society groups, representatives from political parties, and ordinary citizens took to the stage to share their perspectives and demand accountability from the new leadership.
Among the attendees was Alima Mahamane, a local businesswoman who expressed her optimism for a brighter future under the military’s rule. “I believe that the military has the best interests of the people at heart,” she said. “We have suffered under corrupt leaders for too long, and it’s time for a change.”
While the coup has garnered international criticism and calls for a swift return to civilian rule, the supporters who gathered in Niamey remained steadfast in their commitment to the military-led transition. They see it as an opportunity to address the long-standing issues of corruption, economic stagnation, and unequal distribution of resources.
With the overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm displayed by the Niger coup supporters, it is clear that the desire for change runs deep within the hearts of many citizens. As the country navigates this period of transition, it remains to be seen how the military’s leadership will effectively address the challenges that lie ahead.
In the coming weeks, the attention will be on the military’s ability to deliver on their promises and usher in a new era of stability, development, and democratic governance. The eyes of the world will be on Niger as it strives to rewrite its future.
