DOHA (Sputnik) – Niger’s National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) has reportedly demanded the complete withdrawal of French troops from the West African country by September 3.
Earlier in the day, Saudi media reported the CNSP had announced the annulment of all security and military agreements with France.
By the end of the week, supporters of the pullout are going to stage an indefinite protest against the presence of the French military in Niger.
Some residents have reportedly demanded that the authorities cut water and power supply to the French base, as well as halt food deliveries.
Last week, the Nigerien Foreign Ministry called on French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours.
Paris said it took note of Niger’s request to the ambassador, but noted Niger’s military leadership has no authority to make such decisions.
Nigerien soldiers stand guard as supporters of Niger’s National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) gather for a demonstration in Niamey on August 11, 2023 near a French airbase in Niger – Sputnik International, 1920, 28.08.2023
EU Eyes Expulsion of French Ambassador From Niger as ‘Provocation’ That Won’t Help Crisis
On July 26, Niger’s presidential guard ousted and detained President Mohamed Bazoum.
The guard’s commander, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, proclaimed himself the president of the caretaker CNSP-led government.
Most Western countries as well as ECOWAS condemned it. In early August, ECOWAS adopted a plan for a potential military intervention in Niger.
Published by Sputnik Globe
Republished by The 21st Century
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of 21cir.com