Niger Republic junta accepts transition plan, mediator confirms

In a significant development, the junta governing Niger Republic has agreed to terms and conditions outlining the transition back to civilian control after months of military rule. Togo’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, acting as the chief diplomat in this mediation, confirmed the agreement during a televised announcement.

Dussey stated that he had successfully negotiated with Niger’s junta-appointed Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, and Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare, reaching a consensus on both the content and timing of the transition. Emphasizing the readiness to present the transition plan, Dussey highlighted that it would be shared with the mediating heads of state and the ECOWAS Commission, referring to the Economic Community of West African States.

This development comes on the heels of a significant move by ECOWAS, which, just a week ago, established a mechanism to review efforts aimed at activating a standby force for counterterrorism operations. The focus of these operations is particularly on regions heavily affected by terrorist groups.

It’s crucial to recall that the political landscape in Niger experienced a seismic shift in July when soldiers, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of the Presidential Guard, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, citing reasons such as “bad governance and worsening security.” The agreement on the transition plan marks a pivotal step towards restoring civilian governance in the country.