A crucial step towards reinstating democratic governance in Niger has been taken as the country's military leaders have reached a consensus on a plan, awaiting approval from the regional bloc Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Togo's Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, played a pivotal role in negotiating the agreement during discussions with the junta in Niger.
The military took control of Niger in a coup last July, prompting ECOWAS to advocate for a swift return to constitutional order. Dussey, representing ECOWAS, visited Niger to engage with the junta and announced the positive outcome on state television.
“We had an enriching work session with the prime minister and the minister of foreign affairs of Niger. We worked and agreed on the content and timing of the transition,” stated
Robert Dussey, expressed optimism about presenting the plan to ECOWAS heads of state and the ECOWAS Commission in January.
While details of the agreement were not disclosed, ECOWAS had previously decided to establish a committee, consisting of leaders from Togo, Sierra Leone, and Benin, to engage with the Niger junta and formulate a concise transition roadmap.
The bloc, West Africa's primary economic and political body, outlined plans to gradually lift sanctions on Niger based on the outcomes of these talks.
The resolution by ECOWAS aligns with its commitment to fostering democracy in the region.
In response to positive developments, a senior U.S. diplomat emphasized the readiness of the United States to resume security and development cooperation with Niger, contingent on the junta's demonstrable efforts toward restoring democratic governance.
Niger's military council, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, seized power by ousting President Mohamed Bazoum, marking the eighth such coup in West and Central Africa since 2020.
