PROTESTS TARGET FRENCH EMBASSY IN NIGER IN WAKE OF COUP

Mon 31 July 2023:

People in Niamey, the Niger Republic’s main city, flocked to the streets in response to the coup, which sparked an anti-French campaign against colonialism. In front of the Embassy, thousands of demonstrators gathered to voice their disapproval. It attracted attention as some protesters carried banners and sang pro-Russian slogans among the anti-French chants.

Following the July 26 military coup, the French government said that it had halted all budgetary and financial support for Niger. President Emmanuel Macron reportedly said that they will not allow any attack on France’s interests in Niger, according to news from the Elysee Palace that was reported by the country’s media.

The Elysee Palace also declared that they would respond immediately and strongly to any attack on France’s interests or citizens. The French Foreign Ministry also stated that Niger has an obligation to ensure the security of France’s diplomatic facilities.

On July 26, elements of the Presidential Guard Regiment had detained President Mohamed Bazoum. The Armed Forces also announced that they supported the coup to prevent bloodshed among different security forces and to protect the physical integrity of President Bazoum and his family.

It was revealed that the coup was orchestrated by General Omar Tchiani, who had been serving as the Commander of the Presidential Guard for about ten years.

General Tchiani announced on state television that he assumed control of the transitional government. The coup-prone continent of Africa woke up to a new coup on the morning of July 26.

In the West African country of Niger, elements of the Presidential Guard Regiment detained President Mohamed Bazoum and later took over the government by reading a coup declaration on television in the evening.

In support of the soldiers who took over the government, Nigeriens are taking to the streets.

Landlocked Niger has had a turbulent political history since gaining independence in 1960. Before Wednesday, there had been four coups and numerous other attempts, including two previously against Bazoum.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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