According to The Cable, Abdourahmane Tiani, the self-proclaimed head of state of the Niger Republic, announced that the country would transition to civilian rule within three years.
In a televised address on Saturday night, he revealed that the specifics of the transition would be determined through a dialogue hosted by the junta within the next 30 days.
He said, “Our goal is not to hold onto power. The transition period will not exceed three years; meanwhile, we urge political parties to present their ideas for the transition within the given timeframe.”
During his 12-minute speech, the former head of the presidency’s guards expressed concerns about the intentions of ECOWAS (the Economic Community of West African States), accusing them of planning to invade Niger and collaborate with foreign armies.
He condemned what he likened to illegal and inhuman sanctions imposed by the regional bloc, asserting that while Niger did not seek conflict, they were prepared to defend themselves if necessary.
Tiani stated, “We are open to dialogue, as long as it considers the desires of the Nigerien people. However, any intervention will have severe consequences and should not be taken lightly.”
Previously, Niger’s coup leaders had rejected a delegation from ECOWAS. However, on Saturday, Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine welcomed Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Abubakar, Abdulsalami Abubakar, the former Nigerian head of state, and ECOWAS commission president Omar Touray for discussions.
The delegation later met with President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been held captive since the military takeover in July.
Abdulsalami acknowledged the challenges faced by Bazoum and pledged to relay the information to the leaders who sent them. He stated, “The meeting has undoubtedly initiated discussions that will lead to a resolution of this crisis.”
Despite ECOWAS defense chiefs finalizing intervention plans, the security council emphasized their preference for diplomacy in resolving the situation in Niger.
Temmyabbe (
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