Politics News: Burkina Faso and Mali caution against foreign intervention following Niger coup

Burkina Faso and Mali Issue Warning against Intervention in Niger

Burkina Faso and Mali have issued a strong warning to any country considering intervention in neighboring Niger, stating that it would be seen as a “declaration of war” against their two nations. This statement, released on Monday, also voiced their refusal to implement what they referred to as “illegal, illegitimate and inhumane sanctions” against the Nigerien people and authorities. The governments of Burkina Faso and Mali expressed their solidarity with the people of Niger, who have taken control of their destiny and sovereignty in the wake of the recent coup.

Last week, soldiers in Niger arrested President Mohamed Bazoum, claiming to have “put an end” to his administration. Their reasons for the coup included concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Niger and the rising cost of living. Abdourahamane Tchiani, the chief of the presidential guard, proclaimed himself as the leader in a televised address.

The international response to the coup was swift and critical. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) denounced the coup as a “hostage situation” and threatened military intervention if Bazoum was not reinstated. ECOWAS stated that if their demands were not met within one week, they would take all necessary measures, including the use of force, to restore constitutional order in Niger.

Mohamed Bazoum, who was democratically elected in 2021, was seen as a key ally and source of stability in Africa’s Sahel region. The European Union immediately suspended budget support and all security cooperation activities following his removal, and France took similar actions. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that the US would consider withdrawing its assistance, including $150 million, if the coup was not reversed. He called for Bazoum’s return to power and did not recognize Tchiani as the leader.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea have provided support to the leaders of the Niger coup. Guinea’s President Mamady Doumbouya expressed firm support for the people of Niger and warned against the recommended sanctions and military intervention by ECOWAS, stating that they could lead to a humanitarian disaster. The coup leaders in Niger also alleged that the French government had authorized an attack on the presidential palace, a claim which France denied. Pro-coup protests outside the French embassy in Niamey, the capital of Niger, added to the tensions.

International observers are concerned that the instability in Niger could create an opportunity for organizations like the Wagner Group, a Russian private mercenary company. Wagner’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, voiced approval of the coup, claiming that the situation had been brewing for a while. However, the Kremlin in Russia expressed serious concern about the situation in Niger.

As the situation in Niger remains uncertain, it is essential for regional and international actors to find a peaceful and democratic resolution to the crisis. The warnings from Burkina Faso and Mali against intervention highlight the potential escalation of tensions and the need for a diplomatic approach. The international community must continue to monitor the situation closely and support efforts towards stability and democratic governance in Niger.

Original Story at www.aljazeera.com – 2023-08-01 00:35:28