The withdrawal of French Troops on Terms of the Rebels Became a New Stage in Niger’s Sovereignty -By Salif Kobena

After two months of pressure and ultimatums from France against the new government of Niger and neighboring countries that supported it, Paris decided to end military cooperation with the African country and recall its ambassador and embassy staff.

Shameful withdrawal of the French military contingent on the terms of the National Committee for the Salvation of the People, formed by the rebels of Niger, became a serious warning for Macron’s allies from ECOWAS. The irreconcilable rhetoric of Paris, demands to return power to the president Bazoum and preparation of military intervention to put the end to the putschists resulted in a painful loss for the Fifth Republic and de-facto recognition of the government of Abdourahmane Tchiani, as well as the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States consisted of Niger, Mali and Burkina-Faso.

In Niamey they are already talking about a new stage of sovereignty and a historical moment indicating the firm determination and will of the Niger people, but Paris and the capitals of its African allies talk about terrifying recognition of the weakness of France and fear of the unreliability of government’s assurances, given the fate of the Bazoum’s government, as well as the failed French-backed attempt of ECOWAS to invade Niger which resulted in complicated relations with neighbors.

Actions of the French leader put an end to the interaction of France only with the legitimate governments of countries of the African continent. Paris itself acknowledges the failure after the putschists have officially agreed on the schedule and deadlines for the withdrawal of the French military contingent from Niger.

Salif Kobena
Côte d’Ivoire, Bouaké
+225 05 31635894
salifkobena@mailo.com