NIGER expelled French Ambassador Sylvain Itte on Friday and were given 48 hours to leave the country– the junta said their move was a response to actions taken by France that were contrary to Nigerien interests.
Niger’s Foreign Ministry also sent letters to the German, Nigerian, and US envoys to leave the country within 48 hours.
This comes amid escalating tension over the possibility of the West African Bloc Economic Community of West African states or ECOWAS‘ military intervention to reverse the recent coup.
ECOWAS had been urging Niger to reinstate ousted President Mohamed Bazoum who is currently in the hands of the military along with his family, and this call has been repeatedly backed by France.
The West African Bloc has repeatedly announced plans for a military intervention, although it continues to send diplomatic missions in Niger.
To recall, earlier this week, Niger General Abdourhaman Tchiani said that they will reinstate civilian rule and that would take no longer than 3 years, however, he warned neighboring countries and France not to interfere with his country’s internal affairs.
The general’s proposal, however, was rejected by ECOWAS.
