In a heartfelt plea published in The Washington Post, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum of Niger has expressed his concerns regarding the resurgence of terrorism and the potential infiltration of Russian influence in the region following the recent coup d’état.
Writing as a “hostage” from his sequestered presidential residence since the military coup on July 26th, President Bazoum highlighted the threat posed by the military junta’s attempt to overthrow democracy, emphasizing the arbitrary and illegal imprisonment of hundreds of citizens. He warned that if the coup were to succeed, it would have devastating consequences not only for Niger but also for the wider region and the entire world.
President Bazoum voiced apprehension that the central Sahel region could fall under Russian influence through the Wagner Group, a notorious organization known for its brutal terrorism in Ukraine. He revealed that the instigators of the putsch and their regional allies may grant the group a green light, which would result in an alarming shift of power.
Furthermore, President Bazoum underscored the potentially dire ramifications of a successful coup on international aid. He noted that 40% of Niger’s national budget relies on such assistance, which would undoubtedly be impacted if the putsch were to triumph.
Dismantling the coupists’ false assertions of acting in the interest of Niger’s security, President Bazoum stressed the radical improvement in the country’s security situation since his democractic election in 2021. He highlighted the decline in Boko Haram attacks in the south, with no major incidents in the north and west of the country during his presidency.
President Bazoum commended Niger’s allies and partners, attributing the improved security situation to their support and training initiatives. Taking a critical stance, he called out Mali and Burkina Faso for endorsing the illegal coup and employing criminal mercenaries, such as the Wagner Group, rather than investing in internal capabilities to address security concerns.
In response to the coup, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has introduced unprecedented sanctions, including prohibiting oil exports and imports, as well as suspending cross-border financial transactions.
President Bazoum highlighted the consequences of these measures, pointing out the recent 40% increase in rice prices and shortages of essential goods and electricity in some neighbourhoods. These outcomes underscore the potential hardships that may be inflicted on the population if an autocratic junta were to gain control.
Aware of the troubled Sahel region plagued by authoritarian movements, President Bazoum stressed that Niger stands as the last bastion for the respect of rights. He warned that the instability in Niger could be exploited by Boko Haram and other terrorist groups, turning the country into a launching pad for attacks on neighbouring nations and threatening global peace, security, and freedom.
Appealing to the US government and the international community, President Bazoum called for their support in restoring constitutional order. He reiterated that fighting for shared values, including democratic pluralism and the rule of law, is crucial for long-term progress against poverty and terrorism.
Ultimately, President Bazoum expressed his gratitude to the international community and called upon their unwavering support during this critical moment in Niger’s history. As the country continues to navigate the aftermath of the coup, the hope remains that efforts to restore democracy will prevail, ensuring stability, security, and progress for Niger and the wider region.
