On Saturday, thousands gathered in the Niger capital, Niamey, to demand the withdrawal of French troops, a move supported by the junta that seized power in June.
The protesters congregated near a base housing French soldiers, responding to a call from several civic organizations critical of the French military presence in West Africa. Banners were raised, bearing the message, “French army, leave our country.”
Niger’s military regime escalated its verbal criticisms of France on Friday, accusing Paris of “blatant interference” by backing the ousted president, while protesters held a similar demonstration near a French base outside Niamey.
President Mohamed Bazoum, a French ally whose 2021 election had raised hopes for stability in the troubled country, was detained on July 26 by members of his own guard. Relations with France, Niger’s former colonial power and an ally in its fight against jihadism, rapidly deteriorated after Paris stood by Bazoum.
On August 3, the regime announced the cancellation of military agreements with France, despite the presence of approximately 1,500 French soldiers in the country, aiding in the fight against jihadism in the region.
Paris has disregarded this announcement, citing issues of legitimacy. These agreements had varying timeframes, with one dating back to 2012 and set to expire within a month, according to military leaders.
Furthermore, the military rulers declared the immediate “expulsion” of the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, and revoked his diplomatic immunity, citing concerns for public order. Despite being given a 48-hour deadline to leave Niger, French President Emmanuel Macron praised Itte’s work in Niger and confirmed his presence in the country.
