Niger Republic coup anniversary celebrated by thousands

To commemorate the first anniversary of its coup, the Niger junta brought thousands of people to the country’s capital, Niamey, on Friday.

Clad in garments with images of regime members, the assembly screamed Abdourahamane Tiani’s name, the head of the junta.

With vuvuzelas blaring in the background, Fati Hassane, a member of a women’s group founded since the coup, declared, “We’re celebrating, our dear country will gradually regain its sovereignty.”

There was heavy security at the stadium holding the centennial celebration, including armored cars all surrounding the property.

Tiani did not address the gathering when she arrived, instead greeting guests to the sounds of a traditional drum.

“Never in our country’s recent history has an event received such great popular support,” said Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine.

The July 26 coup anniversary was declared a public holiday.

After taking power, the junta expelled French forces last year while the departure of US troops is expected to be finalised in August.

Niger has also distanced itself from some West African nations, severing ties with the regional bloc ECOWAS.

But it has formed a “confederation” with military leaders ruling Burkina Faso and Mali, who sent representatives to the anniversary event.

All three are fighting jihadist groups, with the Niger junta using the security situation as a justification for its coup.

Attacks have continued, however, with dozens of civilians and soldiers killed in recent months.

“I’ve come to support the soldiers, they’re doing a good job so far,” said Ibrahim Niando, carrying a national flag.

Niger has also drawn closer to Turkey, Iran and Russia, whose flags were visible at the stadium.

While the junta celebrated its year in power, ousted president Mohamed Bazoum remains detained in his official residence.