Niger: “content” of transition “agreed” before ECOWAS opinion

The Togolese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, announced progress in mediation talks in Niamey with Niger’s military-led government. After a coup on July 26, Niger has been ruled by a military regime, and discussions have centered on the transition back to civilian rule. Dussey confirmed that both sides agreed on the content and timing of this transition, following meetings with Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, and Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangaré.

Dussey emphasized that the next step would be to present the agreed transition plan to ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) leaders and mediators. His counterpart from Sierra Leone, Timothy Kabba, was expected to join the talks but could not attend. However, both Dussey and Kabba are scheduled to return to Niamey in January for further negotiations.

At an ECOWAS summit held in Abuja, the regional bloc indicated its willingness to reduce sanctions on Niger, contingent upon a “short transition” to restore civilian governance. A special committee, composed of the leaders of Benin, Togo, and Sierra Leone, has been tasked with negotiating with Niger’s military rulers to secure commitments that could ease the sanctions. General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of Niger’s military regime, has previously stated that the transition period would not exceed three years, with the specifics to be determined through a national dialogue.

Despite ongoing negotiations, ECOWAS suspended Niger from all decision-making bodies within the organization until constitutional order is restored. This suspension follows the recognition that President Mohamed Bazoum, ousted during the coup, and his government had been the legitimate representatives of Niger in regional meetings.