Protesters Demand French Ambassador and Soldiers to Withdraw from Niger
Protests erupted outside a French military base in Niger as demonstrators demanded the withdrawal of the French ambassador and 1,500 soldiers deployed in the country. Organized by civic organizations, the protesters displayed banners with messages such as “French army, leave our country,” expressing their frustration with the continued French presence. The military government in Niger has accused French President Emmanuel Macron of interference and seeking a neocolonial relationship with the former colony.
President Macron has refused to recognize the new rulers in Niger and has instead backed ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Despite a deadline to leave, France’s ambassador has remained in Niger, a move that was applauded by Macron. The protesters in the capital city of Niamey took matters into their own hands when they broke through barriers set up by security forces and attempted to force their way into the army base housing French troops.
In response, the military reinforced security around the base and issued a warning against forceful entry. The military rulers accused Paris of “blatant interference” for supporting Bazoum, as Macron reiterated his support for the ousted president and his refusal to recognize the coup leaders.
Adding to the tension, Niger is also facing a standoff with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has threatened military intervention if diplomatic efforts fail. Macron, in his statement, called on regional states to adopt a responsible policy and expressed support for ECOWAS’s diplomatic initiatives while acknowledging the potential for military action.
The situation in Niger remains highly volatile as protests continue, demanding the complete withdrawal of French military presence. With tensions escalating and international pressure mounting, the outcome of this power struggle between the military rulers, the protesters, and France will undoubtedly shape the future direction of the country. As the crisis deepens, the eyes of the world are watching on the outcome of this power struggle between Niger’s military and its relationship with France.
