Niger government confirms military coup attempt thwarted

Niger government confirms military coup attempt thwarted. The government of Niger said Wednesday that Security forces foiled an attempted military coup at the West African country’s presidential palace overnight. However, just two days before the newly installed president is to be sworn in a peaceful transition of power. The coup attempt poses the prospect of more unrest at the newly elected President Mohamed Bazoum’s inauguration on Friday. Already, his government is facing unprecedented attacks from Islamic militants along the country’s turbulent border with Mali.

Several people have detained in connection with the coup attempt. However, others connect to the events are actively being sought. According to government spokesman Abdourahmane Zakaria on Wednesday afternoon. The government rejects this cowardly and backward act aimed at jeopardizing democracy and the rule of law. As demonstrated by the most recent democratic, open, and fair elections embraced by the entire national and international community, Zakaria said.

At least 100 people killed in border villages:

Already, there are concerns that Bazoum’s inauguration would spark further bloodshed in Niger which killed at least 137 civilians. In addition, at least 100 people killed in border villages. Moreover, on the day Niger declares the presidential election would held in a second-round on February 21st. Secretary-General Antoni Guterres is monitoring the situation with considerable concern. Hence, he urges all parties concerned to refrain from any sort of the country’s stability. 

According to Dujarric, Guterres calls the armed forces to strictly adhere to their constitutional commitments and advises both sides to accept the results of February 21st. The overnight crackle of gunshots in the neighborhood near the palace sparked imminent fears of a coup attempt. Considering Niger’s long tradition of the military taking power by force after its independence from France in 1960.

The most recent successful coup happened in February 2010, when armed troops invaded the presidential palace and deposed strongman President Mamadou Tandja. The soldiers later proclaimed on state television that they had taken possession of the country. The next year, new elections held, and the president will get elected. In compliance with Niger’s constitution, he will step down on Friday after completing two terms. Authorities announced in 2016 that four military officers had admitted to plotting an overthrow of the regime.