ADDIS ABABA: The African Union (AU) convened a crucial meeting on Monday to deliberate on the ongoing crisis in Niger, following the recent coup that saw the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.
The AU’s Peace & Security Council, headed by AU Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat, gathered at the organization’s headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Representatives from Niger and the West African bloc ECOWAS also attended the meeting.
The discussions focused on gaining insight into the current state of affairs in Niger and the collective efforts being undertaken to address the complex situation. This gathering comes amid growing concerns regarding the treatment of President Bazoum, who, along with his family, has been confined to the presidential residence in Niamey since the coup.
Last week, Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed “deep concern” over the reported harsh conditions of Bazoum’s detention, denouncing his treatment at the hands of the coup leaders as “unacceptable.” In a subsequent move, Niger’s military regime announced its intention to prosecute the democratically elected Bazoum for “high treason.” The regime also criticized ECOWAS for imposing sanctions on the country in response to the coup.
Niger’s New PM Determined to Overcome Challenges
Niger’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, asserted the country’s determination to overcome the challenges posed by the sanctions. Despite deeming the situation “unfair,” Zeine expressed confidence in Niger’s ability to navigate through the imposed sanctions. He emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts and dialogue, highlighting a forthcoming visit by a Nigerian delegation and negotiations with ECOWAS.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed a series of sanctions on Niger following the coup, including the severance of financial transactions, electricity supplies, and the closure of borders. These measures have had a profound impact on Niger’s economy, hindering access to essential goods and services in one of the world’s most impoverished nations.
While the sanctions have raised concerns about the well-being of Niger’s population, Zeine remained optimistic about engaging with ECOWAS and underscored the significance of the economic ties between Niger and its neighboring countries. He articulated a desire to preserve the historical relationship between Niger and Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of fostering economic prosperity for all member states within the ECOWAS framework.
As the meeting concluded, Zeine called on the people of Niger to place their trust in the new authorities and reassured them of the government’s commitment to serving with integrity and competence.
