Tchiani assumes Niger presidency, dissolves political parties

DDM News

General Abdourahamane Tchiani has been sworn in as the transitional president of Niger.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the ceremony was held on Wednesday in Niamey, Niger’s capital city.

This move comes nearly two years after he led a military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.

Gen Tchiani, who already headed the presidential guard, took control citing national security failures.

He has now formalized his leaderhip under a new transitional charter replacing the nation’s previous constitution.

The charter introduces a five-year transition period before democratic elections can be held.

However, this timeline is described as “flexible” and subject to the country’s security situation.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Gen Tchiani was also promoted to the highest military rank of army general.

He expressed gratitude for the honor and pledged to serve with humility and dedication.

“I receive this distinction with great humility,” he said during the ceremony.

“I will strive to live up to the trust placed in me,” he added.

Immediately after assuming presidential duties, Gen Tchiani signed a decree dissolving all political parties in the country.

This effectively eliminates any opposition or democratic challenge during the transitional period.

The move has raised concerns among political observers and international human rights organizations.

State-run news agency ANP reports that the transitional charter includes provisions to protect national resources for public benefit.

Gen Tchiani said the charter “takes unprecedented measures to protect our natural resources for the benefit of Nigeriens.”

The decision to assume transitional leadership follows the recommendations of a national dialogue commission.

This commission was set up after months of political tension and consultation across various sectors.

Niger’s military rulers claim the coup was necessary to combat insecurity and corruption under the previous government.

For years, Niger has faced repeated jihadist attacks from groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

The military junta blamed the previous civilian government for failing to address these ongoing threats effectively.

Following the coup, Niger cut ties with France, its former colonial power, and expelled French troops.

Gen Tchiani’s regime has instead aligned more closely with Russia, seeking military and economic cooperation.

This shift mirrors similar moves by neighboring countries also ruled by military juntas.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea have all experienced coups and adopted similar diplomatic realignments.

Like Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have also left the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas).

These countries criticized Ecowas for its sanctions and pressure following their respective military takeovers.

Niger formally exited Ecowas after the regional bloc rejected its proposed three-year transition period.

Ecowas had called the plan a provocation and initially threatened military intervention.

However, the bloc later backed down amid growing regional instability and concerns over broader conflict.

The political crackdown in Niger extends to former President Mohamed Bazoum, who remains under house arrest.

He is being held in the presidential palace alongside his wife, according to reports.

Their son was granted provisional release in January after months in detention.

The junta has accused Bazoum of committing high treason and undermining national security.

Human rights groups have condemned his detention and called for his unconditional release.

Gen Tchiani has defended the legal proceedings, saying they follow national interest and legal frameworks.

He insists that the new leadership is committed to restoring order and prosperity.

The charter also emphasizes equitable management of Niger’s natural resources and public wealth.

Gen Tchiani stated that the people of Niger must benefit directly from their nation’s mineral and agricultural riches.

Niger is rich in uranium and oil, but widespread poverty remains a major challenge.

Observers say the junta’s economic policies will be closely watched during the transition period.

International reactions have been mixed, with some countries calling for a quicker return to democracy.

Others are adopting a wait-and-see approach, given Niger’s importance in regional security dynamics.

Despite criticisms, Gen Tchiani remains firm on maintaining control during the five-year transitional period.

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