The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declined to accept a proposed three-year power transition plan put forth by the military junta of Niger Republic. ECOWAS has emphasized its stance against extended transition periods in the region and urged the junta to promptly hand over power to civilians.
Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for political affairs, peace, and security, stated that ECOWAS would not support prolonged transitions and emphasized that the junta should focus on its primary responsibility of defending Niger’s territorial integrity.
The leader of Niger’s military junta, Abdourahmane Tiani, had announced a return to civilian rule within three years. He mentioned that the details of the transition plan would be determined within 30 days through a dialogue hosted by the junta.
The coup in Niger, which led to the removal of President Bazoum by the presidential guard, has garnered international criticism and raised concerns about regional instability. In response to the coup, ECOWAS imposed sanctions and demanded the reinstatement of the deposed president.
ECOWAS leaders had given the junta a seven-day ultimatum to restore constitutional order or face military intervention. The regional body remains committed to ensuring the restoration of civilian rule in Niger and maintaining stability in the region.