Niamey, Niger – (African Boulevard News) – Tens of thousands of people flooded the streets of Niamey on Saturday to show their support for last month’s coup, following the expulsion of the French ambassador, in a display of growing nationalist sentiment in Niger.
The rally came a day after the new military leaders of Niger ordered the French ambassador to leave the country within 48 hours. The move was seen as a response to what the military government perceived as interference in their internal affairs by France, the former colonial power.
The demonstrators, waving the national flag and carrying banners with slogans like “Niger for the Nigeriens,” expressed their solidarity with the coup leaders and their desire for a strong and independent Niger.
“The presence of foreign powers in our country has hindered our development and undermined our sovereignty for too long,” said Mariam, a 36-year-old teacher who attended the rally. “We support the military’s actions to restore order and assert our independence.”
While some critics have expressed concerns about the military taking control, many see the coup as a necessary step to address corruption and political instability in the country. The military rulers have promised to hold elections within a year and have pledged to clean up the government.
According to political analyst Felix Adeoye, “The rally is a clear indication of the support the coup leaders enjoy among a significant portion of the population. It reflects a deep frustration with the status quo and a desire for change.”
The expulsion of the French ambassador has also highlighted the complex relationship between Niger and its former colonial power. France has maintained a military presence in the Sahel region, including Niger, as part of its counterterrorism efforts. However, this has led to accusations of French interference in the country’s internal affairs.
The move to expel the French ambassador marks a shift in Niger’s foreign policy, with the military government signaling a desire for greater independence and control over its affairs.
“The expulsion of the French ambassador is a message to the international community that Niger will no longer tolerate interference from external powers,” said Adeoye. “It is a bold move that underscores Niger’s determination to assert its sovereignty.”
While the rally demonstrated the support for the coup leaders and their actions, it also reflects the growing nationalist sentiment in Niger. The country’s citizens are demanding a government that is accountable to its people and capable of addressing the challenges facing the nation.
As the nation looks ahead to the promised elections, the rally serves as a reminder that the path to stability and progress in Niger lies in the hands of its people. The challenge now for the military government is to translate the popular support into meaningful reforms that benefit all Nigeriens.
Niger is at a critical juncture in its history, and the rally in Niamey is a powerful symbol of the hopes and aspirations of its people. The nation’s future hangs in the balance, as the military leaders strive to navigate the complex challenges and steer Niger towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
