Fresh Update On French Ambassador In Niger Emerge After Junta’s Deadline To Quit The Country

Fresh Update On French Ambassador In Niger Emerge After Junta’s Deadline To Quit The Country

France’s ambassador to Niger is defying the military rulers’ ultimatum, which ordered him to leave the country within 48 hours on Friday.

Despite being asked to leave by the junta for various reasons, including refusing to attend a meeting with Niger’s foreign minister and perceived actions by the French government against Niger’s interests, French envoy Sylvain Itte remains in Niger.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Ambassador Itte would not depart Niger, even after the junta’s deadline passed. Macron affirmed that France’s policy towards Niger, based on supporting the deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, is steadfast.

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France does not acknowledge Niger’s military authorities and maintains that Bazoum, the ousted president, is the legitimate leader.

Macron emphasized the importance of consistent support for democratically elected leaders and questioned how African partners could trust France if its support was not unwavering amid the surge of coups in the Sahel region.

Approximately 1,500 French soldiers are stationed in Niger, which is a key partner for France in the Sahel.

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The European Union (EU) expressed full support for the French ambassador, asserting that the junta’s decision to expel him only adds to the crisis and does not contribute to a diplomatic resolution. The EU refuses to recognize the authorities resulting from the coup in Niger.

Sanctions, including the suspension of financial aid, have been imposed by both France and the EU against Niger following the coup. However, some Nigeriens have endorsed the coup.

Recent demonstrations took place in support of the junta in Niger, while pro-junta rallies occurred with nationals from neighboring Benin and Burkina Faso expressing solidarity with Niger’s military administration.

Niger’s junta receives significant backing from the military governments of Burkina Faso and Mali, with promises of military aid if West African bloc ECOWAS carries out its threat of a potential military intervention to restore Bazoum to power.