In a significant diplomatic move, a delegation representing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) convened on Saturday to hold talks with the recently ousted President of Niger, Mohammed Bazoum. This strategic meeting aims to address the ongoing crisis that has gripped the nation.
The delegation, led by former Nigerian head of state Abdulsalami Abubakar, engaged in discussions with Bazoum within the Nigerien capital, Niamey. The meeting included the presence of Prime Minister Ali Zaine, who assumed office under the Niger military administration following the July 26 coup.
Abubakar expressed that the talks with Bazoum provided insights into the challenges he is currently facing. The former head of state conveyed, "We met Bazoum, we heard from him what was done to him. He told us about the problems he’s facing." Despite the complex situation, Abubakar remained hopeful, indicating that the meeting has initiated a constructive dialogue that aims to find a resolution to the crisis.
This recent diplomatic effort by ECOWAS follows a previous attempt earlier in August, which unfortunately did not materialize due to the junta leaders' refusal to grant the delegation an audience. The timing of this meeting becomes even more crucial as it transpired just one day after military leaders from the West African bloc gathered in Ghana. During this high-level meeting, a decision was made to consider the use of force to reinstate Bazoum should peaceful negotiations falter.
Meanwhile, on the streets of Niger, a palpable sense of urgency was evident as thousands of men volunteered for the nation's armed forces. This mobilization comes in response to the looming possibility of a military intervention by ECOWAS. As tensions rise, Niger, with an army comprising around 33,000 personnel, stands at a critical juncture in its history.
News ID : 2399