Niger: President Mohamed Bazoum Calls On US For Help After Coup

Niger’s ousted leader has urged the US and “entire international community” to help “restore… constitutional order” after last week’s coup.

In an opinion piece in the Washington Post, President Mohamed Bazoum said he was writing “as a hostage”.

He also warned that the region could fall further under Russian influence, via the Wagner Group which already operates in neighbouring countries.

Niger’s West African neighbours have threatened military intervention.

In a statement read out on national television, they said the functions of the four ambassadors had been “terminated”.

Niger is a significant uranium producer – a fuel that is vital for nuclear power – and under Mr Bazoum was a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist militants in West Africa’s Sahel region.

In his newspaper article, Mr Bazoum warned the coup, if it succeeded, would have “devastating consequences for our country, our region and the entire world”.

“Fighting for our shared values, including democratic pluralism and respect for the rule of law, is the only way to make sustainable progress against poverty and terrorism,” Mr Bazoum wrote.

“The Nigerien people will never forget your support at this pivotal moment in our history.”

Mr Bazoum also warned of the coup leaders’ links to Russian mercenary group Wagner, which operates elsewhere in the region and has been seen by many as exercising a malign influence in Niger.

Many supporters of the coup in Niger have been chanting pro-Russian slogans and wearing the colours of the Russian flag.

On Thursday, thousands of people took to the streets of Niger’s capital, Niamey, in a peaceful demonstration backing the coup and criticising other West African countries for imposing financial and trade sanctions on Niger.

There is no indication that Wagner was involved in the overthrow of Mr Bazoum, according to the US – but Wagner’s leader has reportedly described the coup as a triumph. The Russian government, however, has called for the ousted president to be returned to power.

BBC