Niger says it cannot receive West African delegation

Niger's military government cannot receive the ECOWAS delegation for "security" reasons, as tensions between the two sides increase.

"The context of public anger and unrest following the imposition of sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) makes security conditions untenable for hosting the delegation of the bloc," Niger's Foreign Ministry said in a letter dated August 7 to the ECOWAS representative in Niamey.

ECOWAS has imposed trade and financial sanctions on Niamey after the military seized Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and placed him under house arrest on July 26. General Abdourahamane Tiani, commander of the military guard, was chosen as the new head of the military government.

ECOWAS also issued an ultimatum, demanding that Niger hand over power to Mr. Bazoum by the night of August 6, warning of possible military intervention in the country. The deadline has passed without any military action. The bloc is scheduled to hold a summit on the situation in Niger on August 10 in Nigeria and wants to send a delegation to Niamey on August 8.

"The postponement of the mission to Niamey, as well as the rescheduling of certain aspects of the delegation's itinerary, was necessary," according to a letter from Niger's military authorities. "Meetings with certain individuals could not take place for security reasons, in the context of the threat against Niger."

Pro-coup protesters hold Niger flags during a demonstration in the capital Niamey on August 3. Photo: AFP

ECOWAS consists of 15 African countries: Cape Verde, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Niger, Nigeria and Togo.

Mali and Burkina Faso, which are both under military rule and were suspended from ECOWAS following coups, have said any military intervention in Niger would be tantamount to a declaration of war against them.

The United States and European countries believe there is still a chance to end the coup in Niger through diplomatic means. France said today that the restoration of constitutional order in Niger depends on ECOWAS. A source familiar with the situation said ECOWAS is not planning an immediate military intervention in Niger, adding that the path to dialogue remains open.

Location of Niger and neighboring countries. Graphic: AFP

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters )

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