Reactions are expanding regarding the coup executed by the presidential guard in Niger, which has detained President Mohamed Bazoum and besieged his residence as well as key ministries. Reports indicate that the guard fired shots to disperse pro-president demonstrations. In response, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced that the President of Benin has been tasked with mediating in Niger.
On Wednesday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed concerns over the current events in Niger following reports of an attempted coup. He stated, "The European Union condemns any attempt to undermine democracy and threaten stability in Niger."
The United Nations, through a statement from Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, condemned any attempt to seize power by force and called on all parties to show restraint. The statement read, "The Secretary-General is closely monitoring the situation in Niger. He strongly condemns any attempt to seize power by force and undermine democratic governance, peace, and stability in Niger."
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed on Wednesday the United States' concern regarding the developments in Niger, strongly condemning any attempt to undermine the democratically elected government or to overthrow it. Sullivan stated, "We specifically call on members of the presidential guard to release President Bazoum and refrain from violence," adding that the White House is monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of American citizens there.
ECOWAS expressed its concern over any attempted coup and called on the guard to release Bazoum. The African Union also urged the "treasonous" soldiers involved to stop immediately. A presidential statement indicated that the national army is prepared to attack the presidential guard if they do not return to their senses. This statement came after reports indicated that the presidential guard had blocked roads to the palace and detained Bazoum inside, raising fears of a sixth coup in West Africa since 2020.
The presidency stated on social media that "The President of the Republic and his family are safe," without providing further details. This statement was later deleted amid doubts about who holds control. Soldiers seized all roads leading to the national television station, which was airing a film. A Reuters correspondent noted that the rest of Niamey appeared calm, traffic was normal, and internet connectivity was unaffected.
A military coup in Niger could complicate Western efforts to assist Sahel countries in combating a jihadist insurgency that has spread from Mali over the past decade. France relocated its forces from Mali to Niger last year following deteriorating relations with the military council in Mali. Previous coups in Burkina Faso and Mali were driven by frustrations over the authorities' failure to combat the jihadist insurgency ravaging the Sahel, including Niger.
There was also a failed coup attempt in Niger in March 2021 when a military unit attempted to seize the presidential palace days before Bazoum was to take the oath of office. Bazoum's election represented the first democratic power transfer in a nation that has experienced four military coups since gaining independence from France in 1960.
