Niger Coup Leader’s 3-Year Transition Plan Rejected by ECOWAS

Niger military ruler General Abdourahamane Tchiani’s 3-Year transition plan has been rejected by the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musa, disclosed this during an interview with newsmen. 

Musa said, “ECOWAS is not accepting any prolonged transition again in the region. They just have to get ready to hand over in the shortest possible time.”

He also warned that the “Military aspect is very much on. The earlier they give power back to civilians and concentrate on their primary responsibility which is defending the territorial integrity of Niger, the better for them.”

Tchiani’s 3-Year Transition Plan

Recall that Abdourahamane Tchiani had on Sunday said his government planned to return power back to civilian rulers in the next three years.

The coup leader gave no details on the potential transition. Tchiani noted that the principles for the move would be decided within 30 days at a dialogue to be hosted by the ruling military council.

Speaking after his first meeting with delegates from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the Nigerien capital, Niamey, Tchiani said “Neither the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland nor the people of Niger want war, and remain open to dialogue.”

Also, Tchiani said, “But let us be clear: If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park some people seem to think.” 

What you need to know

Niger’s coup leader also claimed ECOWAS was “getting ready to attack Niger by setting up an occupying army in collaboration with a foreign army” and denounced what he called “illegal” and “inhuman” sanctions imposed by the regional bloc.

He added that “I reaffirm here that our ambition is not to confiscate power. I also reaffirm our readiness to engage in any dialogue, as long as it takes into account the orientations desired by the proud and resilient people of Niger.”