In a significant development following months of military rule, the Niger Republic junta has consented to the terms and conditions facilitating a transition back to civilian control.
The breakthrough was announced by Togo’s Chief Diplomat, Robert Dussey, who detailed the agreement reached with Niger’s junta-appointed leaders.
Speaking on Niger’s national television, Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized that consensus had been achieved regarding the specifics and timeline of the transition, adding that he will present the plan to a regional bloc.
“We have reached an agreement on the content and timing of the transition with Niger’s junta-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine and Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare. We are prepared to present the plan to the mediating heads of state and the ECOWAS Commission,” stated Dussey, referencing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Meanwhile, the announcement comes a week after the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, set up a mechanism that would review efforts to activate a standby force for counterterrorism operations, especially in areas infested by terrorist groups.
Recall that in July, soldiers led by Abdourahamane Tiani, a general and head of the Presidential Guard, overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, citing “bad governance and worsening security.”