<p>Niger's military rulers on Friday gave ambassadors from the United States, France, Germany and Nigeria 48 hours to leave the country. This comes amid escalating tension over the possibility of West African bloc ECOWAS' military intervention to reverse the recent coup in Niger.&nbsp;ECOWAS had&nbsp;been urging for the reinstatement of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown on July 26. This call has been repeatedly backed by Paris.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday said that the junta expelled the French ambassador.</p>

<p>The decision to expel the ambassador was a response to actions taken by the French government that were "contrary to the interests of&nbsp;Niger," the junta said in a statement.</p>

<h2>Niger&nbsp;issues&nbsp;<strong>ultimatum</strong></h2>

<p>In letters to their respective governments, Niger's foreign ministry has said that the German, Nigerian and US envoys must leave the country within 48 hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-africa-military-chiefs-ready-to-intervene-after-niger-coup-626912">West Africa military chiefs ready for intervention in Niger; ECOWAS to send diplomatic mission</a></strong></p>

<p>The letters claim that this order is in response to the envoys' refusal to cooperate and respond to a meeting invitation from the Niger foreign ministry. It also cites other actions of their respective governments "contrary to the interests of Niger," reports AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>France rejects military leaders' authority</strong></h2>

<p>France has swiftly rejected the ultimatum and has emphasised that it does not recognise the military rulers.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The putschists do not have the authority to make this request, the ambassador's approval coming solely from the legitimate elected Nigerien authorities," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>The coup has prompted a significant response from ECOWAS, which has urged Niger's military leaders to reconsider their position and warned that the threat of force remains "very much on the table".</p>

<p>"Even now, it is not too late for the military to reconsider its action and listen to the voice of reason as the regional leaders will not condone a coup d'etat," said ECOWAS commission president Omar Alieu Touray while addressing reporters in Abuja.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></strong></p>

<p>"The real issue is the determination of the community to halt the spiral of coup d'etats in the region," he added.</p>

<p>As per AFP, the generals behind the July 26 coup have asked for a three-year period to transition back to civilian rule. However, ECOWAS is pushing for immediate return to constitutional order.</p>

<p>Niger's military leaders have warned ECOWAS against intervention of any kind. They have instead accused the bloc of preparing an occupying force in league with an unnamed foreign country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Niger's military rulers on Friday gave ambassadors from the United States, France, Germany and Nigeria 48 hours to leave the country. This comes amid escalating tension over the possibility of West African bloc ECOWAS' military intervention to reverse the recent coup in Niger.

Niger's military rulers on Friday gave ambassadors from the United States, France, Germany and Nigeria 48 hours to leave the country. This comes amid escalating tension over the possibility of West African bloc ECOWAS' military intervention to reverse the recent coup in Niger. ECOWAS had been urging for the reinstatement of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown on July 26. This call has been repeatedly backed by Paris. A report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday said that the junta expelled the French ambassador. The decision to expel the ambassador was a response to actions taken by the French government that were "contrary to the interests of Niger," the junta said in a statement. Niger issues ultimatum In letters to their respective governments, Niger's foreign ministry has said that the German, Nigerian and US envoys must leave the country within 48 hours. Also read | West Africa military chiefs ready for intervention in Niger; ECOWAS to send diplomatic mission The letters claim that this order is in response to the envoys' refusal to cooperate and respond to a meeting invitation from the Niger foreign ministry. It also cites other actions of their respective governments "contrary to the interests of Niger," reports AFP. France rejects military leaders' authority France has swiftly rejected the ultimatum and has emphasised that it does not recognise the military rulers. "The putschists do not have the authority to make this request, the ambassador's approval coming solely from the legitimate elected Nigerien authorities," it said in a statement. The coup has prompted a significant response from ECOWAS, which has urged Niger's military leaders to reconsider their position and warned that the threat of force remains "very much on the table". "Even now, it is not too late for the military to reconsider its action and listen to the voice of reason as the regional leaders will not condone a coup d'etat," said ECOWAS commission president Omar Alieu Touray while addressing reporters in Abuja. Also read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum "The real issue is the determination of the community to halt the spiral of coup d'etats in the region," he added. As per AFP, the generals behind the July 26 coup have asked for a three-year period to transition back to civilian rule. However, ECOWAS is pushing for immediate return to constitutional order. Niger's military leaders have warned ECOWAS against intervention of any kind. They have instead accused the bloc of preparing an occupying force in league with an unnamed foreign country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Diplomatic crisis in Niger: Military rulers give foreign envoys 48 hours to leave amid tensions with ECOWAS

<p>Niger's new Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum.</p>

<p>Speaking during an interview with the New York Times, Zeine, who had previously served as the finance minister in a past government, said that the generals who overthrew Bazoum during the coup on July 26 will do him no harm.</p>

<h2><strong>Fate of the overthrown leader</strong></h2>

<p>AFP reports that during the interview, when asked about the fate of the overthrown leader, Zeine, the most senior civilian appointed by Niger's military leaders, said, "Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger."</p>

<p>He further refuted reports the Niger coup leaders had intentions of collaborating with Russia or the Kremlin-backed mercenary group Wagner.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;The scramble for Niger after coup: Russia in, West out, or new proxy war?</strong></p>

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<p>Zeine, who assumed the role of Niger's prime minister on August 7, was also questioned about the presence of 1,100 American soldiers and 1,500 French soldiers, who are involved in anti-terrorist operations, and are reportedly working alongside the local army against jihadists.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-democracy-at-stake-defiant-president-bazoum-vows-to-safeguard-democratic-progress-amidst-coup-619938">Niger's democracy at stake: Defiant President Bazoum vows to safeguard democratic progress amidst coup</a></strong></p>

<p>He remarked that "the moment will come to review" these military partnerships. He also commended the White House on its "extremely reasonable position" and approach in aiming to address the crisis in Niger through diplomatic means and not resorting to military force.</p>

<h2>Concerns for Bazoum's health</h2>

<p>Since being ousted, the Niger president has been confined to his house.&nbsp;As per the New York Times, the coup leaders have cut off water and electricity to Bazoum's house. They have also threatened to kill the president if other African countries make good on a proposal to restore him to power via military intervention.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-junta-open-to-talks-to-resolve-regional-crisis-625882" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-junta-open-to-talks-to-resolve-regional-crisis-625882&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwicq4C7x-eAAxUCxjgGHUN2Dxk4ChAWegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1uNfO-h-rMp81z9My3gz2m" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-junta-open-to-talks-to-resolve-regional-crisis-625882" target="_blank">Niger&nbsp;coup: Junta open to talks to resolve regional crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>On Friday, Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu warned that there will be "grave consequences" if Niger's military regime allows the overthrown leader's health to worsen during his house arrest.</p>

<p>Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres when questioned about the state of Bazoum's health and asked if he was even alive, said: "I've spoken to someone who speaks to him regularly. And, yes, as far as we know and we have no indication to say that he's not alive. So as far as I know, he's alive."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Niger's new Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum. Speaking during an interview with the New York Times, Zeine, who had previously served as the finance minister in a past government, said that the generals who overthrew Bazoum during the coup on July 26 will do him no harm.

Niger's new Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum. Speaking during an interview with the New York Times, Zeine, who had previously served as the finance minister in a past government, said that the generals who overthrew Bazoum during the coup on July 26 will do him no harm. Fate of the overthrown leader AFP reports that during the interview, when asked about the fate of the overthrown leader, Zeine, the most senior civilian appointed by Niger's military leaders, said, "Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger." He further refuted reports the Niger coup leaders had intentions of collaborating with Russia or the Kremlin-backed mercenary group Wagner. Watch | The scramble for Niger after coup: Russia in, West out, or new proxy war? × Zeine, who assumed the role of Niger's prime minister on August 7, was also questioned about the presence of 1,100 American soldiers and 1,500 French soldiers, who are involved in anti-terrorist operations, and are reportedly working alongside the local army against jihadists. Also read | Niger's democracy at stake: Defiant President Bazoum vows to safeguard democratic progress amidst coup He remarked that "the moment will come to review" these military partnerships. He also commended the White House on its "extremely reasonable position" and approach in aiming to address the crisis in Niger through diplomatic means and not resorting to military force. Concerns for Bazoum's health Since being ousted, the Niger president has been confined to his house. As per the New York Times, the coup leaders have cut off water and electricity to Bazoum's house. They have also threatened to kill the president if other African countries make good on a proposal to restore him to power via military intervention. Also read | Niger coup: Junta open to talks to resolve regional crisis On Friday, Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu warned that there will be "grave consequences" if Niger's military regime allows the overthrown leader's health to worsen during his house arrest. Stephane Dujarric, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres when questioned about the state of Bazoum's health and asked if he was even alive, said: "I've spoken to someone who speaks to him regularly. And, yes, as far as we know and we have no indication to say that he's not alive. So as far as I know, he's alive." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Niger's new PM says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum

<p>After Niger's armed forces chief declared the support for his troops who said they had overthrown the country's government, France, the country's former colonial power, said that the coup is not final and indicated that the situation is not evolving.</p>

<p>"If you hear me talking about an attempted coup, it's because we don't consider things final, there is still a way out if those responsible listen to the international community," French foreign minister Catherine Colonna said.</p>

<p>President Mohamed Bazoum, deemed a pro-West figure in the country, remains confined at his residence since July 26 by members of his presidential guard.</p>

<p>The self-declared Defence and Security Forces (FDS), declared late on July 26 that they had "decided to put an end to the regime," and all institutions were being suspended, and the borders were closed.</p>

<p>Armed forces chief General Abdou Sidikou Issa on Thursday swung his weight behind the putschists.</p>

<p>Earlier, Bazoum defiantly stood his ground as condemnation of the swelled from African and international organisations and country's allies France and the United States.</p>

<p>"The hard-won (democratic) gains will be safeguarded," Bazoum said on Twitter.</p>

<p>"All Nigeriens who love democracy and freedom would want this."</p>

<p>Foreign minister Hassoumi Massoudou said Niger's "legal and legitimate power" was the one exercised by its elected president.</p>

<p>There had been a "coup bid" but "the whole of the army was not involved," he told France24 television.</p>

<p>"We ask all the fractious soldiers to return to their ranks," he said.</p>

<p>"Everything can be achieved through dialogue but the institutions of the republic must function."</p>

<h2><strong>Pro-coup demonstrations in Niger</strong></h2>

<p>Several hundred people in Niamey and the town of Dosso took part in shows of support for the coup leaders, news agency AFP reported.</p>

<p>In scenes redolent of what happened in Mali following a coup there in 2020, some held Russian flags and chanted anti-French and pro-Russian slogans.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-un-humanitarian-operations-are-on-hold-says-spokesperson-620086">Niger: UN humanitarian operations are 'on hold', says spokesperson</a></strong></p>

<p>"France was unable to take care of our problems we need to take our destiny in hand," said their leader, who gave his name as Issouf and said he worked in a garage.</p>

<p>Youngsters from the gathering in the capital Niamey travelled several kilometers (miles) to the headquarters of Bazoum's PNDS party and attacked it, setting fire to some cars.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Niger: Army backs coup leaders, President Bazoum detained by elite troops | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The president of neighbouring Benin, Patrice Talon, arrived&nbsp;in the capital for mediation efforts on July 27, the head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) said.</p>

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After Niger's armed forces chief declared the support for his troops who said they had overthrown the country's government, France, the country's former colonial power, said that the coup is not final and indicated that the situation is not evolving.

After Niger's armed forces chief declared the support for his troops who said they had overthrown the country's government, France, the country's former colonial power, said that the coup is not final and indicated that the situation is not evolving. "If you hear me talking about an attempted coup, it's because we don't consider things final, there is still a way out if those responsible listen to the international community," French foreign minister Catherine Colonna said. President Mohamed Bazoum, deemed a pro-West figure in the country, remains confined at his residence since July 26 by members of his presidential guard. The self-declared Defence and Security Forces (FDS), declared late on July 26 that they had "decided to put an end to the regime," and all institutions were being suspended, and the borders were closed. Armed forces chief General Abdou Sidikou Issa on Thursday swung his weight behind the putschists. Earlier, Bazoum defiantly stood his ground as condemnation of the swelled from African and international organisations and country's allies France and the United States. "The hard-won (democratic) gains will be safeguarded," Bazoum said on Twitter. "All Nigeriens who love democracy and freedom would want this." Foreign minister Hassoumi Massoudou said Niger's "legal and legitimate power" was the one exercised by its elected president. There had been a "coup bid" but "the whole of the army was not involved," he told France24 television. "We ask all the fractious soldiers to return to their ranks," he said. "Everything can be achieved through dialogue but the institutions of the republic must function." Pro-coup demonstrations in Niger Several hundred people in Niamey and the town of Dosso took part in shows of support for the coup leaders, news agency AFP reported. In scenes redolent of what happened in Mali following a coup there in 2020, some held Russian flags and chanted anti-French and pro-Russian slogans. Also read | Niger: UN humanitarian operations are 'on hold', says spokesperson "France was unable to take care of our problems we need to take our destiny in hand," said their leader, who gave his name as Issouf and said he worked in a garage. Youngsters from the gathering in the capital Niamey travelled several kilometers (miles) to the headquarters of Bazoum's PNDS party and attacked it, setting fire to some cars. Also watch | Niger: Army backs coup leaders, President Bazoum detained by elite troops | World News | WION × The president of neighbouring Benin, Patrice Talon, arrived in the capital for mediation efforts on July 27, the head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France says Niger coup 'not final' as army chief declares support for insurrection

<p>The soldiers of the&nbsp;landlocked West African country and former French colony, Niger, announced a coup on the country's national television and said they have deposed Mohamed Bazoum, the elected president of a country of over 25.3 million. An army spokesperson said that the country's security forces were "putting an end to the regime".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Niger President Mohamed Bazoum remains detained by troops since early on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;President being held by Presidential guards: Niger</strong></p>

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<p>The now-deposed President Bazoum is perceived as pro-West and has been a key Western ally in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-to-announce-end-of-anti-jihadist-operation-barkhane-in-africas-sahel-region-532510">war against Islamist militancy in West Africa</a>. Niger now adds to a wave of armed coups in western Africa after Mali and Burkina Faso.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-accuses-france-of-arming-islamic-terrorists-seeking-to-destabilise-nation-507903">Mali accuses France of arming Islamic terrorists seeking to destabilise nation</a></strong></p>

<p>The army said they have dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions and locked the country's borders with Libya to its northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria to the south, Benin and Burkina Faso to the southwest, Mali to the west, and Algeria to the northwest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Niger is a landlocked nation in Western Africa | Google Maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="873bf60d-df43-4c02-95b3-ef88a0f14b95" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2824%29_2.png" /></p>

<p><em>Niger is a landlocked nation in Western Africa | Google Maps</em></p>

<p>"All external partners are asked not to interfere," Col Maj Amadou Abdramane, alongside nine other uniformed soldiers behind him, said late Wednesday (July 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Land and air borders are closed until the situation has stabilised."</p>

<p>Col Maj Abdramane said the soldiers were acting for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP).</p>

<h2><strong>Niger coup: Global reactions</strong></h2>

<p>The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres condemned the developments in Niger and said that the UN stands by the government and the people of Niger.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I condemn in the strongest terms any effort to seize power by force and to undermine democratic governance, peace &amp; stability in Niger.<br />
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The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> stands by the Government and the people of Niger.</p>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1684288049427931139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The African Union also denounced the coup and urged the Niger army persons to "immediately cease the unacceptable actions".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Chairperson of the African Union Commission <a href="https://twitter.com/AUC_MoussaFaki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AUC_MoussaFaki</a> condemns the coup attempt in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Niger?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Niger</a>.<a href="https://t.co/bWYHc36OgU">https://t.co/bWYHc36OgU</a> <a href="https://t.co/kqtrX0xqWm">pic.twitter.com/kqtrX0xqWm</a></p>
— African Union (@_AfricanUnion) <a href="https://twitter.com/_AfricanUnion/status/1684200742209347590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, also the chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), deployed a delegation led by President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic, to mediate the supposed military standoff which has since transitioned into a supposed coup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"ECOWAS will not tolerate illegitimate authority," Tinubu said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, I state without equivocation that Nigeria stands firmly with the elected government in Niger. We shall not waiver or flinch on our stand to defend and preserve constitutional order. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NigeriaStandsWithNiger?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NigeriaStandsWithNiger</a> <a href="https://t.co/NCFeTroaX9">pic.twitter.com/NCFeTroaX9</a></p>
— Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) <a href="https://twitter.com/officialABAT/status/1684239126978080768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>At the time of filing this report, the high-powered ECOWAS delegation had&nbsp;arrived in Niger's capital Niamey to "engage with coup plotters". The delegation comprises two former governors, a military general, and a diplomat from Nigeria. It remains unclear whether the talks have started between the concerned stakeholders or not.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United States called for the 'immediate release' of Niger's president. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he spoke with Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I spoke with President Bazoum earlier this morning and made clear that the United States resolutely supports him as the democratically elected president of Niger. We call for his immediate release," he said while speaking at a joint presser with New Zealand's foreign minister as part of his two-day visit to the country.</p>

<p>French foreign ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre said Paris was watching the situation carefully, and "condemned attempts to take power by force".</p>

<p>France, she said, has joined African Union calls to restore the integrity of democratic institutions in the country.</p>

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The soldiers of the landlocked West African country and former French colony, Niger, announced a coup on the country's national television and said they have deposed Mohamed Bazoum, the elected president of a country of over 25.

The soldiers of the landlocked West African country and former French colony, Niger, announced a coup on the country's national television and said they have deposed Mohamed Bazoum, the elected president of a country of over 25.3 million. An army spokesperson said that the country's security forces were "putting an end to the regime". Niger President Mohamed Bazoum remains detained by troops since early on Wednesday. Also watch | President being held by Presidential guards: Niger × The now-deposed President Bazoum is perceived as pro-West and has been a key Western ally in the war against Islamist militancy in West Africa. Niger now adds to a wave of armed coups in western Africa after Mali and Burkina Faso. Also read | Mali accuses France of arming Islamic terrorists seeking to destabilise nation The army said they have dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions and locked the country's borders with Libya to its northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria to the south, Benin and Burkina Faso to the southwest, Mali to the west, and Algeria to the northwest. Niger is a landlocked nation in Western Africa | Google Maps "All external partners are asked not to interfere," Col Maj Amadou Abdramane, alongside nine other uniformed soldiers behind him, said late Wednesday (July 26). "Land and air borders are closed until the situation has stabilised." Col Maj Abdramane said the soldiers were acting for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP). Niger coup: Global reactions The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres condemned the developments in Niger and said that the UN stands by the government and the people of Niger. I condemn in the strongest terms any effort to seize power by force and to undermine democratic governance, peace & stability in Niger. The @UN stands by the Government and the people of Niger. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) July 26, 2023 × The African Union also denounced the coup and urged the Niger army persons to "immediately cease the unacceptable actions". The Chairperson of the African Union Commission @AUC_MoussaFaki condemns the coup attempt in #Niger.https://t.co/bWYHc36OgU pic.twitter.com/kqtrX0xqWm — African Union (@_AfricanUnion) July 26, 2023 × Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, also the chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), deployed a delegation led by President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic, to mediate the supposed military standoff which has since transitioned into a supposed coup. "ECOWAS will not tolerate illegitimate authority," Tinubu said. As Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, I state without equivocation that Nigeria stands firmly with the elected government in Niger. We shall not waiver or flinch on our stand to defend and preserve constitutional order. #NigeriaStandsWithNiger pic.twitter.com/NCFeTroaX9 — Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) July 26, 2023 × At the time of filing this report, the high-powered ECOWAS delegation had arrived in Niger's capital Niamey to "engage with coup plotters". The delegation comprises two former governors, a military general, and a diplomat from Nigeria. It remains unclear whether the talks have started between the concerned stakeholders or not. The United States called for the 'immediate release' of Niger's president. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he spoke with Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum. "I spoke with President Bazoum earlier this morning and made clear that the United States resolutely supports him as the democratically elected president of Niger. We call for his immediate release," he said while speaking at a joint presser with New Zealand's foreign minister as part of his two-day visit to the country. French foreign ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre said Paris was watching the situation carefully, and "condemned attempts to take power by force". France, she said, has joined African Union calls to restore the integrity of democratic institutions in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Niger coup: President Bazoum remains detained as world leaders slam army's 'illegitimate authority'

<p>Niger's President, Mohamed Bazoum on Thursday, took a defiant stand on social media, vowing to protect the "hard-won" democratic gains just a day after being toppled in a military coup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country's Foreign Minister, Hassoumi Massoudou, also joined in the defiance, calling on "all democrats and patriots" to stand against the coup.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vive la démocratie, vive le Niger</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, the defiant Bazoum wrote, "The hard-won achievements will be safeguarded. All Nigerians who love democracy and freedom will see to it."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Les acquis obtenus de haute lutte seront sauvegardés.<br />
Tous les nigériens épris de démocratie et de liberté y veilleront.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MB</a></p>
— Mohamed Bazoum (@mohamedbazoum) <a href="https://twitter.com/mohamedbazoum/status/1684423395423784965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Acting head of government, I appeal to all democrats, to all patriots, to defeat this adventure which carries all the dangers for our country. Long live democracy, long live Niger," wrote Massoudou.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Chef du gouvernement par intérim, j’en appelle à tous les démocrates, à tous les patriotes, pour mettre en échec cette aventure porteuse de tous les périls pour notre pays. Vive la démocratie, vive le Niger.</p>
— Hassoumi Massoudou (@HassoumiMassou1) <a href="https://twitter.com/HassoumiMassou1/status/1684395181536149508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>The coup</strong></h2>

<p>These statements come after a dramatic turn of events&nbsp;unfolded on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a late-night broadcast on national television, soldiers announced the removal of President Bazoum from power and the suspension of all institutions of the republic.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, members of the presidential guard had barricaded the presidential palace in the capital city, Niamey, effectively confining President Bazoum within its walls. This move further exacerbated concerns about the country's stability.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-soldiers-claim-to-have-overthrown-president-619751" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-soldiers-claim-to-have-overthrown-president-619751&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxOHs3K6AAxUahGMGHcxvA5sQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw27AN63Q1Wri4QXCxnKB450" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-soldiers-claim-to-have-overthrown-president-619751" target="_blank">Niger&nbsp;soldiers claim to have overthrown president&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to France 24, Massoudou revealed that Bazoum remained held inside the palace as of Thursday (July 27th) morning, with his exact whereabouts unknown.</p>

<p>A nationwide curfew has been imposed by the military and borders have been closed, plunging Niamey into an eerie calm on Thursday morning.</p>

<p>Bazoum's supporters had initially gathered to express their opposition to the change of power, but they were quickly dispersed as events escalated.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is behind the coup?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Reuters, the identity of the individuals behind the coup remains unclear.</p>

<p>While the presidential guard is led by General Omar Tchiani, it was a member of the air force, Colonel Amadou Abdramane, who delivered the televised statement on behalf of the defence and security forces.</p>

<p>Abdramane, who was accompanied by nine officers dressed in their fatigues, stated that their actions were in response to deteriorating security and governance in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-president-bazoum-remains-detained-as-world-leaders-slam-armys-illegitimate-authority-619765">Niger coup: President Bazoum remains detained as world leaders slam army's 'illegitimate authority'</a></strong></p>

<p>Niger, a former French colony, and several other West African nations have been grappling with jihadist militant groups that have launched violent insurgencies across the region in the past decade.&nbsp;The frustration over the state's failure to curb these attacks has fuelled political instability, resulting in a series of coups in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso since 2020.</p>

<p>This&nbsp;coup marks the seventh in West and Central Africa since 2020, underscoring the fragility of democracy in the region. The situation had sparked regional and international concern, considering Niger's pivotal role as a Western ally in combating insurgency in the Sahel region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Western powers aiding in the fight against jihadists, Niger's role has become increasingly critical, especially as relations with military governments in Burkina Faso and Mali have soured, leading to foreign troop withdrawals.</p>


Niger's President, Mohamed Bazoum on Thursday, took a defiant stand on social media, vowing to protect the "hard-won" democratic gains just a day after being toppled in a military coup.

Niger's President, Mohamed Bazoum on Thursday, took a defiant stand on social media, vowing to protect the "hard-won" democratic gains just a day after being toppled in a military coup. The country's Foreign Minister, Hassoumi Massoudou, also joined in the defiance, calling on "all democrats and patriots" to stand against the coup. Vive la démocratie, vive le Niger Taking to Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, the defiant Bazoum wrote, "The hard-won achievements will be safeguarded. All Nigerians who love democracy and freedom will see to it." Les acquis obtenus de haute lutte seront sauvegardés. Tous les nigériens épris de démocratie et de liberté y veilleront.#MB — Mohamed Bazoum (@mohamedbazoum) July 27, 2023 × "Acting head of government, I appeal to all democrats, to all patriots, to defeat this adventure which carries all the dangers for our country. Long live democracy, long live Niger," wrote Massoudou. Chef du gouvernement par intérim, j’en appelle à tous les démocrates, à tous les patriotes, pour mettre en échec cette aventure porteuse de tous les périls pour notre pays. Vive la démocratie, vive le Niger. — Hassoumi Massoudou (@HassoumiMassou1) July 27, 2023 × The coup These statements come after a dramatic turn of events unfolded on Wednesday. In a late-night broadcast on national television, soldiers announced the removal of President Bazoum from power and the suspension of all institutions of the republic. Earlier in the day, members of the presidential guard had barricaded the presidential palace in the capital city, Niamey, effectively confining President Bazoum within its walls. This move further exacerbated concerns about the country's stability. Also read | Niger soldiers claim to have overthrown president Speaking to France 24, Massoudou revealed that Bazoum remained held inside the palace as of Thursday (July 27th) morning, with his exact whereabouts unknown. A nationwide curfew has been imposed by the military and borders have been closed, plunging Niamey into an eerie calm on Thursday morning. Bazoum's supporters had initially gathered to express their opposition to the change of power, but they were quickly dispersed as events escalated. Who is behind the coup? As per Reuters, the identity of the individuals behind the coup remains unclear. While the presidential guard is led by General Omar Tchiani, it was a member of the air force, Colonel Amadou Abdramane, who delivered the televised statement on behalf of the defence and security forces. Abdramane, who was accompanied by nine officers dressed in their fatigues, stated that their actions were in response to deteriorating security and governance in the country. Also read | Niger coup: President Bazoum remains detained as world leaders slam army's 'illegitimate authority' Niger, a former French colony, and several other West African nations have been grappling with jihadist militant groups that have launched violent insurgencies across the region in the past decade. The frustration over the state's failure to curb these attacks has fuelled political instability, resulting in a series of coups in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso since 2020. This coup marks the seventh in West and Central Africa since 2020, underscoring the fragility of democracy in the region. The situation had sparked regional and international concern, considering Niger's pivotal role as a Western ally in combating insurgency in the Sahel region. For Western powers aiding in the fight against jihadists, Niger's role has become increasingly critical, especially as relations with military governments in Burkina Faso and Mali have soured, leading to foreign troop withdrawals.

Niger's democracy at stake: Defiant President Bazoum vows to safeguard democratic progress amidst coup

<p>The Niger presidential palace has been blocked by soldiers of the Presidential Guard, local media reported on Wednesday (July 26).</p>

<p>Both AFP and Reuters news agencies claimed that their reporters on the ground saw military vehicles blocking the entrance to the presidential palace in the capital Niamey.</p>

<p>An official in the presidency told Reuters that staff inside the palace have been blocked from accessing their offices.</p>

<p>AFP reported quoting sources that Niger President Mohamed Bazoum has been detained by the Presidential Guard members, who have been given an "ultimatum" by the army.</p>

<p>Disgruntled members of the guard sealed off access to the president's residence and offices, and after talks broke down "refused to release the president," the source was quoted saying, adding: "The army has given them an ultimatum."</p>

<p>Bazoum, considered a close ally of France, was democratically elected in 2021.</p>

<p>Access to ministries next to the palace has also been blocked, the security sources told Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>On the other hand, streets in the capital Niamey appeared calm, despite the presidential palace remaining barricaded by security forces.</p>

<h2><strong>Repeated coup attempts&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The movements of the military forces have triggered speculations whether the country is going to witness another coup d'état.</p>

<p>The landlocked West African nation has experienced four coups since independence from France in 1960 as well as numerous attempted ones.</p>

<p>The last coup occurred in February 2010, overthrowing then-president Mamadou Tandja. In fact, Bazoum has reportedly faced two coup attempts.</p>

<p>Just two days before Bazoum's inauguration, there was an attempt to overthrow him on March 31, 2021, local media reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-refuses-to-say-why-foreign-minister-qin-gang-was-sacked-abruptly-619606">China refuses to say why foreign minister Qin Gang was sacked abruptly</a></p>

<p>A second bid to oust Bazoum occurred in March this year "while the president... was in Turkey," a Niger official told AFP, adding that an arrest was made.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senators-sound-alarm-on-ai-helping-non-state-actors-develop-biological-weapons-619518">US senators sound alarm on AI helping non-state actors develop biological weapons</a></p>

<p>The authorities have never commented publicly on the incident.</p>

<p>In January 2018, nine soldiers and a civilian were sentenced by a military court to jail terms ranging from five to 15 years for having attempted to topple Bazoum's predecessor, Mahamadou Issoufou, in 2015.</p>

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The Niger presidential palace has been blocked by soldiers of the Presidential Guard, local media reported on Wednesday (July 26). Both AFP and Reuters news agencies claimed that their reporters on the ground saw military vehicles blocking the entrance to the presidential palace in the capital Niamey.

The Niger presidential palace has been blocked by soldiers of the Presidential Guard, local media reported on Wednesday (July 26). Both AFP and Reuters news agencies claimed that their reporters on the ground saw military vehicles blocking the entrance to the presidential palace in the capital Niamey. An official in the presidency told Reuters that staff inside the palace have been blocked from accessing their offices. AFP reported quoting sources that Niger President Mohamed Bazoum has been detained by the Presidential Guard members, who have been given an "ultimatum" by the army. Disgruntled members of the guard sealed off access to the president's residence and offices, and after talks broke down "refused to release the president," the source was quoted saying, adding: "The army has given them an ultimatum." Bazoum, considered a close ally of France, was democratically elected in 2021. Access to ministries next to the palace has also been blocked, the security sources told Reuters news agency. On the other hand, streets in the capital Niamey appeared calm, despite the presidential palace remaining barricaded by security forces. Repeated coup attempts The movements of the military forces have triggered speculations whether the country is going to witness another coup d'état. The landlocked West African nation has experienced four coups since independence from France in 1960 as well as numerous attempted ones. The last coup occurred in February 2010, overthrowing then-president Mamadou Tandja. In fact, Bazoum has reportedly faced two coup attempts. Just two days before Bazoum's inauguration, there was an attempt to overthrow him on March 31, 2021, local media reported. Also read | China refuses to say why foreign minister Qin Gang was sacked abruptly A second bid to oust Bazoum occurred in March this year "while the president... was in Turkey," a Niger official told AFP, adding that an arrest was made. Also read | US senators sound alarm on AI helping non-state actors develop biological weapons The authorities have never commented publicly on the incident. In January 2018, nine soldiers and a civilian were sentenced by a military court to jail terms ranging from five to 15 years for having attempted to topple Bazoum's predecessor, Mahamadou Issoufou, in 2015. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Another coup attempt in Niger? President Mohamed Bazoum detained by presidential guards

There has been an attempted coup in the West African country Niger. The failed coup unfolded just ahead of President Mohamed Bazoum's inauguration.

Niger: Attempted coup ahead of President Bazoum's inauguration