Abdourahmane Tchiani warns that any military intervention in Niger ‘will not be a walk in the park’ for those involved.
Abdourahmane Tchiani and other army commanders held a meeting in the capital, Niamey, Niger on July 28, 2023. Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, the head of Nigerâs presidential guard, appeared on national television on Friday and declared himself the new leader of the country after a coup.“But let us be clear: If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park some people seem to think,” he said.
“I reaffirm here that our ambition is not to confiscate power. I also reaffirm our readiness to engage in any dialogue, as long as it takes into account the orientations desired by the proud and resilient people of Niger,” he added. The ECOWAS delegation’s arrival in Niamey followed that of the new United States ambassador to Niger, Kathleen FitzGibbon.
Meanwhile, on the streets of Niamey on Saturday, many residents said they were preparing to fight back against an ECOWAS military intervention. Events organiser Amsarou Bako claimed the military was not involved in recruiting volunteers to defend the coup, although it is aware of the initiative. Hours after the drive started, the organisers said it would be postponed, but did not explain why.Despite the apparent show of support for the coup leaders, analysts say the military has not managed to exert full control over the country.
“So, there’s disorientation, there’s confusion, and I understand there’s a lot of discord in the ranks.”
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