Most of West Africa ready to join standby force in Niger: ECOWAS
Al JazeeraAug 02, 2023
Niger: ECOWAS Rejects Coup Leader's Transition Plan
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Image copyright: UK Mission to the UN New York/Flickr [via Wikimedia Commons]
The Facts
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has rejected a power transition plan proposed by Niger's military junta following a meeting between the new Nigerien leaders and representatives of the regional bloc.
Commissioner Abdel-Fatau Musah told BBC on Sunday that ECOWAS will not accept "any prolonged transition again in the region" and called on the junta to hand over power within the shortest possible time while warning that the "military aspect is very much on."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The fact that ECOWAS has rejected this long "transition period" is a sign of strength, as the junta is merely trying to buy time to consolidate its power at the expense of freedom and democracy. ECOWAS and the international community must not let themselves be misled by the coup plotters and maintain pressure on the illegitimate regime. A peaceful solution to restore constitutional order in Niger would be desirable, and it's up to the junta to prevent military intervention.
Establishment-critical narrative
ECOWAS shouldn't allow itself to be used as a tool of US and French interests in Niger under the guise of supposedly restoring "democracy." Any military action by the regional bloc and the inhumane sanctions don't serve the interests of the Nigerien people or those of Africa, but only those of the Western powers. ECOWAS must move away from this NATO interventionist mentality and find a truly autonomous African solution to the crisis in Niger, and that solution can only be diplomatic.
