In a significant political development, Niger’s junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, has been inaugurated as the nation’s president for a five-year transitional period under a newly established charter that supplants the previous constitution. This move solidifies Tchiani’s authority following his orchestration of the June 2023 coup that ousted the democratically elected government.
During the inauguration ceremony in Niamey, Tchiani, an army veteran, was elevated to the rank of army general and enacted a decree dissolving all political parties, further consolidating his grip on power. The newly adopted transition charter, endorsed by a recent national conference, outlines a “flexible” five-year period commencing immediately.
This development challenges efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to expedite Niger’s return to democratic governance. The junta’s initial proposal of a three-year transition was previously rejected by ECOWAS, leading to the imposition of sanctions and threats of military intervention. In response, Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, withdrew from the regional bloc in protest.
The transition charter also stipulates that the establishment of foreign military bases in Niger requires approval via a referendum, though the president retains the authority to permit such bases through a decree in emergency situations. Currently, Niger maintains a military partnership with Russia, having expelled U.S. and French forces, both longstanding allies.
Critics contend that the junta has curtailed civil liberties and has been ineffective in addressing ongoing jihadist violence—the very issue cited as justification for the 2023 coup. Analysts suggest that the prolonged transition period may enhance Russia’s influence in the Sahel region, as Niger’s alignment with Mali and Burkina Faso strengthens.
Abdourahamane Tchiani Assumes Niger’s Presidency Amid Extended Military Rule
Source : Swifteradio.com
