Niger’s military has taken control and announced border closures

Niger’s military declared on Wednesday the suspension of the current republic and the displacement of the country’s president, Mohamed Bazoum.

This action follows an asserted deterioration of security and mismanagement of economic and social affairs. Additionally, the military has enforced a closure of Niger’s borders.

Delivering statements via Niger television, the military faction, self-identified as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CLSP), confirmed their adherence to all Niger’s existing international commitments.

They announced the suspension of all Seventh Republic institutions, with defense and security forces managing the current situation.

The military has requested non-interference from international partners and has mandated the cessation of both land and air travel into and out of the country until stabilization is achieved.

In further communication from Major Colonel Amadou Abramane, a representative of the CLSP, a national curfew has been implemented from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice.

The CLSP has also pledged to uphold the physical and moral rights of the displaced authorities in alignment with international human rights principles.

This takeover follows an unsuccessful coup attempt against President Bazoum in March 2021, just days before his inauguration.

The situation in Niger remains critical, with the country ranking among the world’s poorest, grappling with jihadist violence, climate change impacts, and a food crisis affecting millions.

In response, Niger’s existing political parties urged the CLSP to relinquish their arms and called upon the Nigerien populace to rally in defense of democracy.

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and other international bodies have condemned the coup and expressed solidarity with the ousted president.

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