The military rulers who took control in Niamey on July 26 have demanded that the French ambassador leave Niger within 48 hours, as stated by the country’s foreign affairs minister on Friday, as reported by AFP.
The decision to ask Sylvain Itte, the French ambassador, to depart within 48 hours follows his refusal to attend a meeting on Friday, along with other actions by the French government that are perceived as against Niger’s interests, according to the statement.
This move comes amidst a series of anti-France statements and demonstrations since the Nigerien army ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who is currently detained with his family.
The military leaders allege that Paris aims to militarily intervene in Niger to reinstate Bazoum. They also assert that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is under the influence of former colonial power France.
In response to the coup, ECOWAS has imposed significant economic sanctions on Niger and has even threatened the use of armed force to restore constitutional order.
France maintains around 1,500 troops in Niger to assist in combating jihadist groups that have afflicted both the country and the wider Sahel region for an extended period.
