NIGER        

Quick Facts:

• Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani was sworn in as Niger’s transitional president for five years.
  
  

• He took power in 2023 after a military coup, ousting President Mohamed Bazoum.
  
  

• A new charter replaces the constitution, and all political parties have been dissolved.
  
  

• Niger has cut ties with France and allied with Russia.
  
  

• The transition period is flexible, depending on security conditions.
  
  

• Bazoum remains in detention, facing high treason charges.
  
  

• The junta claims the new charter will protect Niger’s natural resources for its people.
  
  

Who is Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani?

Gen Tchiani has led Niger since 2023 after deposing elected President Mohamed Bazoum. He was recently sworn in as the transitional president for five years under a new charter that replaces the country’s constitution.

What changed with his swearing-in?

Along with assuming office, Gen Tchiani was promoted to the highest military rank of army general. He also signed a decree dissolving all political parties, consolidating the junta’s power.

How long will the transition last?

The transition to democratic rule is set for five years, but the new charter states that the timeline is “flexible” and could be extended based on Niger’s security conditions.

Why did the military take over?

The junta justified the coup by citing ongoing jihadist attacks that have plagued Niger for years. Similar takeovers have occurred in neighboring Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, all of which are now military-led.

What about Niger’s international relations?

Niger has distanced itself from former colonial ruler France and shifted its alliances toward Russia. Along with Mali and Burkina Faso, it has also pulled out of Ecowas, the West African regional bloc, after tensions over the junta’s proposed transition plan.

What happened to former President Bazoum?

Bazoum remains detained in the presidential palace with his wife. He is being prosecuted for high treason and alleged threats to national security. His son was granted a provisional release earlier this year.

What does the new charter say?

Gen Tchiani claims the new charter aligns with past constitutions but introduces new protections for Niger’s natural resources, ensuring that citizens benefit from their wealth.