“Massive Demonstrations in Niamey Demand French Troop Withdrawal from Niger Amid Junta’s Call”
On Saturday, thousands gathered in Niamey to demand the withdrawal of French troops from Niger, as requested by the junta that seized power in late June. The demonstrators assembled near a base housing French soldiers in response to calls from several civic organizations hostile to France’s military presence in the West African nation.
Amidou Gourou, one of the protesters, explained, “We are here to express our unwavering determination, commitment, and dedication to removing the French military force and all military bases from our national territory.”
Niger’s military regime had criticized France on Friday, accusing Paris of “blatant interference” for supporting the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum. In early August, the regime announced the termination of military agreements with France, which had approximately 1,500 soldiers stationed in Niger to combat terrorism in the region. Paris dismissed the decision, citing concerns about its legitimacy.
The military rulers also declared the immediate “expulsion” of French ambassador Sylvain Itte and revoked his diplomatic immunity, citing concerns about public order. French President Emmanuel Macron praised Itte’s work in Niger on Monday and stated that he would remain in the country, despite being given a 48-hour ultimatum to leave Niger a week ago
