Niger protests continue against presence of French troops

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【Summary】Demonstrators in Niger demand the withdrawal of French troops, as requested by the military junta that took power in July. Tens of thousands of people have joined the protests, and the regime has scrapped military agreements with France. The French ambassador's expulsion has been announced, but France insists on keeping him in place to represent the legitimate authorities. Relations between Niger and France have deteriorated since the coup.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 4:51 PM PT

Niger protests continue against presence of French troops

Thousands of demonstrators in Niger held a third day of rallies on Sunday, demanding the withdrawal of French troops from the country. These calls align with the wishes of the military junta that took power in July. The protesters chanted slogans such as "Down with France! France get out," echoing sentiments expressed at previous rallies since the coup d'état.

Niger's military regime has intensified its criticism of France, accusing Paris of "blatant interference" by supporting the ousted president of Niger. Tens of thousands of people have joined the ongoing protests near a roundabout close to the Niger military base where French soldiers are stationed.

Relations between Niger and France, once allies in the fight against jihadism, have deteriorated rapidly since France stood by the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum. On August 3, the military regime announced the cancellation of military agreements with France, which currently has approximately 1,500 soldiers stationed in Niger.

Additionally, Niger's military rulers have declared the "expulsion" of the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, and have revoked his diplomatic immunity, claiming his presence poses a threat to public order. However, French President Emmanuel Macron praised Itte's work in Niger and stated that he would remain in the country despite being given a 48-hour deadline to leave.

In response to the situation, France has defended its decision to keep its ambassador in place. Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, in an interview with Le Monde newspaper, stated, "He is our representative to the legitimate authorities in Niger. We don't have to bow to the injunctions of a minister who has no legitimacy." Colonna also assured that Paris is taking measures to ensure Itte's safety in the face of pressure from the coup leaders.