ECOWAS Commission Speaks On Going Back On Military Force Against Niger Junta

ECOWAS Commission Speaks On Going Back On Military Force Against Niger Junta

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) has restated its commitment to employing military force in order to reinstate the democratically elected President of the Republic of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted from power by a military junta.

During a media briefing on Friday, Dr. Omar A. Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, expressed concerns about the resurgence of military interventions in Africa and emphasized the need to put an end to this trend.

President Touray reassured the people of Niger that ECOWAS is dedicated to their well-being and is actively working to restore civilian rule and political stability in the country.

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The military takeover in Niger occurred on July 27 when the democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, was removed from office by the junta. While there were initial public demonstrations in support of the intervention, ECOWAS leadership issued a seven-day ultimatum to the junta to reinstate Bazoum or face intervention.

After the expiration of the ultimatum, ECOWAS began seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis, taking into account calls for caution to prevent further violence in the region.

President Touray noted that the situation in Niger is particularly unfortunate given the country’s relative stability and economic growth at the time of the coup.

Regarding the planned military intervention to restore Bazoum, Touray challenged those questioning the legality of ECOWAS’ decision to do further research on the matter. He emphasized that the activation of sanctions, including the use of legitimate force, is aimed at restoring constitutional order and not at declaring war or invading Niger.

Touray clarified that diplomatic efforts continue to be the preferred approach, but preparations are also being made for the potential deployment of a military force if necessary.

He explained, “The decision to activate the legitimate force provision is a result of failed dialogue. The ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government is committed to peaceful restoration of civilian rule in Niger without delay and will utilize all available instruments towards achieving this goal.”