General Abdourahamane Tchiani named new head after military takes control of country; South Africa, Kenya and United Nations condemn attempted coup, call it ‘unconstitutional’
This video frame grab image obtained by AFP from ORTN - Tele Sahel on July 28, 2023 shows General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger’s new strongman, speaking on national television. Pic/PTI
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, former leader of Niger’s presidential guard, has been named “president of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland” (CNSP) following a military takeover in the West African country, state television reported. The military took over control of Niger because it concerned itself with the continued deterioration of the security situation and poor economic and social governance, the CNSP said on Friday in a statement.
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Later in the day, Tchiani signed an order to suspend the Constitution and dissolved the government, empowering the CNSP to exercise all legislative and executive authorities and the president of the council to represent the country in international relations. Niger’s Defence and Security Forces said late Wednesday that soldiers in the country had overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, hours after the president was allegedly held hostage.
The international community has voiced concerns about the situation in Niger. South Africa condemned the attempted coup in Niger and called on the military establishment to ensure Bazoum’s safety, return to the barracks and restore order in the country. The South African government strongly rejects unlawful seizure of power by any group or individual as this reverses democratic gains and development and threatens the realisation of Africa’s aspiration for a better Africa, the government said in a statement.
Kenyan President William Ruto said on Friday that the unconstitutional change of power was subverting the democratic gains made by African nations over the years. “Kenya joins the rest of the world to condemn, in the strongest terms, this unconstitutional act that subverts democracy through a coup-d’etat and calls for the immediate release of President Bazoum who is reportedly seized by members of the Presidential Guard,” he said in a statement.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Bazoum; the world body suspended humanitarian operations in Niger due to the situation in the country.
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