Anti-French protests target French Embassy in Niger amidst coup aftermath
In response to the coup that turned into an anti-French movement against colonialism, the people took to the streets in the capital city of Niamey, Niger, and targeted the French Embassy.
Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the Embassy, expressing their protest. While the demonstrators chanted anti-French slogans, it caught attention that some protesters displayed pro-Russian banners and slogans.
- World
- Published Date: 12:39 | 31 July 2023
- Modified Date: 12:44 | 31 July 2023
The French government announced that it suspended all financial aid and budget support to Niger following the military coup that occurred on July 26. According to news from the Elysee Palace cited by the country's media, President Emmanuel Macron stated that they will not tolerate any attack on France's interests in Niger.
The Elysee Palace also declared that they would respond immediately and strongly to any attack on France's interests or citizens. The French Foreign Ministry also stated that Niger has an obligation to ensure the security of France's diplomatic facilities.
In the statement, the attack on France's representations was condemned. On the other hand, French Senator Helene Conway-Mouret, speaking to the mainstream television channel BFMTV, stated that Macron made a "mistake" by announcing that he would convene the Defense and National Security Council in Paris regarding the situation in Niger.
Conway-Mouret pointed out that social media users reacted to this situation with comments like "Did the coup happen in Niamey or Paris?" The French Senator stated that Macron's move was interpreted as an intervention in Niger and caused tensions.
On July 26, elements of the Presidential Guard Regiment had detained President Mohamed Bazoum. The Armed Forces also announced that they supported the coup to prevent bloodshed among different security forces and to protect the physical integrity of President Bazoum and his family.
It was revealed that the coup was orchestrated by General Omar Tchiani, who had been serving as the Commander of the Presidential Guard for about ten years.
General Tchiani announced on state television that he assumed control of the transitional government. The coup-prone continent of Africa woke up to a new coup on the morning of July 26.
In the West African country of Niger, elements of the Presidential Guard Regiment detained President Mohamed Bazoum and later took over the government by reading a coup declaration on television in the evening.
In support of the soldiers who took over the government, Nigeriens are taking to the streets.