In a move that underscores escalating tensions, Niger's military rulers have issued a 48-hour ultimatum for ambassadors representing the United States, France, Germany, and Nigeria to depart the nation. The urgency of this directive comes against the backdrop of mounting concerns regarding the potential military intervention by the West African bloc ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), aimed at reversing the recent coup in Niger.

Amidst the ongoing aftermath of the July 26 coup that led to the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger's military rulers have issued a directive demanding the departure of ambassadors representing key nations, including France, Germany, Nigeria, and the United States. This development comes as tensions escalate over the potential intervention of the West African bloc ECOWAS to reinstate President Bazoum, a call that has garnered repeated support from Paris.

Letters dispatched from Niger's foreign ministry to the respective governments of the mentioned envoys outline a stringent requirement: the ambassadors are to vacate the country within a strict 48-hour timeframe. The official reasoning behind this command is attributed to the envoys' alleged non-cooperation and their failure to respond to a meeting invitation extended by Niger's foreign ministry. Furthermore, the letters assert that the envoys' governments have taken actions contradictory to the interests of Niger, as reported by AFP.

However, the ultimatum has encountered swift rejection from France, which has taken a firm stance in refusing to recognize the authority of the military rulers. In an official statement, France asserted that the putschists lack the legitimacy to issue such demands, as the recognition of ambassadors rests solely with the duly elected Nigerien authorities.

The coup's repercussions have triggered a significant response from ECOWAS, which has persistently urged Niger's military leaders to reconsider their stance. ECOWAS has underscored the continued possibility of employing force if necessary, in order to address the crisis. Omar Alieu Touray, the president of the ECOWAS commission, emphasized during a press conference in Abuja that the regional leaders are resolute in preventing the perpetuation of coup d'états in the region.

According to AFP, the generals responsible for the July 26 coup have put forth a proposal for a three-year transition period leading back to civilian rule. However, ECOWAS staunchly advocates for an immediate restoration of constitutional order. Against this backdrop, Niger's military leaders have issued a warning to ECOWAS against any form of intervention, while simultaneously accusing the bloc of planning an occupation with an undisclosed foreign nation.

Image source: MSN News