In a defiant move, France’s ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itte, remains in the West African country despite a 48-hour ultimatum set by the military rulers for his departure. The junta had demanded Itte’s exit after he refused to attend a meeting with Niger’s foreign minister and due to perceived actions by the French government against Niger’s interests. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Itte would not comply with the junta’s deadline, asserting that France’s policy towards Niger, centered on the commitment of its diplomats, remains unchanged.

Macron emphasized that France does not recognize Niger’s military authorities and stands by the deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted in a recent coup. Macron underscored the importance of supporting democratically elected leaders to maintain credibility and trust among African partners, especially amid the rise of coups in the Sahel region.

France maintains a significant military presence in Niger, with up to 1,500 soldiers stationed there, bolstering its partnership in the Sahel.

The European Union also expressed its firm support for the French ambassador, criticizing the junta’s decision to expel him and stressing that this approach will not aid in finding a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis. The EU reiterated its non-recognition of the authorities stemming from the coup in Niger.

Sanctions were previously imposed by France and the EU, including the suspension of financial aid, following the coup.

Nigerien demonstrators rallied in Maradi and Tillabéri regions to express solidarity with the junta, while pro-junta supporters from neighboring Benin and Burkina Faso took to the streets to endorse Niger’s military administration. The junta enjoys strong backing from the military governments of Burkina Faso and Mali, who have promised military support if ECOWAS carries out its threatened intervention to reinstate President Bazoum.

Source: CNN