Protests in Niger for French troop withdrawal

author: FutureCar Staff    

Thousands of demonstrators in Niger held a third day of rallies on Sunday, demanding the withdrawal of French troops from the country. Since the coup d'etat in July, the junta in power has called for France to leave. The protesters chanted slogans such as "Down with France! France get out," echoing sentiments expressed at previous rallies in Niamey.

The military regime in Niger has accused France of "blatant interference" by supporting the country's ousted president. Tens of thousands of people have joined the protests near a roundabout close to the Niger military base where French soldiers are stationed. The relationship between Niger and France, once allies in the fight against extremism, deteriorated after Paris stood by the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum.

On August 3, the military rulers in Niger announced the cancellation of military agreements with France, which currently has around 1,500 soldiers stationed in the country. They also declared the "expulsion" of the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, and revoked his diplomatic immunity, citing a threat to public order. However, President Emmanuel Macron praised Itte's work in Niger and stated that he would remain in the country despite the 48-hour deadline to leave.

In response to the situation, France has defended its decision to keep the ambassador in place. Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna stated that Itte is the representative to the legitimate authorities in Niger and dismissed the demands of a minister without legitimacy. She assured that Paris is ensuring his safety in the face of pressure from the coup leaders.

Source: Al Jazeera

FutureCar Staff