Niamey, 9 Aug, 2023 (GNP): In a significant development, Rhissa Ag Boula, a former rebel leader and politician in Niger, has launched the Council of Resistance for the Republic (CRR), a movement aimed at opposing the military government that seized power in a coup on July 26th. This marks the first sign of internal resistance against army rule in the Sahel country.
Ag Boula’s statement emphasized the aim of the CRR to reinstate overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been under house arrest since the coup. The statement conveyed strong sentiments against the coup, describing Niger as a victim of a tragedy orchestrated by those responsible for its protection.
As diplomatic efforts to reverse the coup face challenges, the CRR’s announcement comes at a critical juncture. The military government rejected diplomatic missions from the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The military’s denial of entry to envoys from Africa and the United Nations adds complexity to the situation, as the ECOWAS plans to discuss potential actions at an upcoming summit.
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In a statement, Ag Boula stated that it would make itself accessible to ECOWAS for any useful purpose and that it supports the organization as well as any other foreign actors attempting to restore constitutional order in Niger.
Ag Boula’s involvement and influence among Tuaregs, a nomadic ethnic group, adds weight to the CRR’s formation. Tuaregs have a significant presence in Niger’s desert north and wield control over commerce and politics in the region. Their support could potentially impact the military government’s control beyond the capital city.
Niger’s strategic importance, both in terms of security and global markets, further underscores the gravity of the situation. The coup has led to international concerns about stability, humanitarian aid disruptions, and the potential for armed conflict. Western nations, which had seen Niger as a democratic partner in the region, are grappling with the implications of the coup.
Late on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that he had spoken to Bazoum to convey his continuous efforts to bring the matter to a peaceful solution.
He sent a message on the social media website X, formerly known as Twitter, saying, “The United States reiterates our call for the immediate release of him and his family.”
Spoke to Nigerien President Bazoum to express our continued efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the current constitutional crisis. The United States reiterates our call for the immediate release of him and his family.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) August 9, 2023
The CRR’s emergence adds a new dimension to the already complex diplomatic landscape. ECOWAS members Mali and Burkina Faso have expressed solidarity with Niger’s new army rulers, calling for diplomatic solutions and warning against any forceful intervention.
The situation is further complicated by the presence of Russian influence in the region. The potential consequences of the coup extend to regional security dynamics and international relations, with concerns about growing Russian influence.
As the situation unfolds, the international community closely watches developments in Niger, mindful of the intricate balance between diplomatic efforts, potential military actions, and regional stability.