In a bold move that defies the directives of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that the nation's ambassador will persist in remaining stationed within the turmoil-stricken Niamey, the capital city.

Brushing aside apprehensions of potential peril arising from non-compliance with the junta's directives, Macron affirmed their resilience in the face of pressure.

“France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts,” he said, according to AFP news agency.

“Our policy is the right one. It depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite pressure,” Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris.

Amidst a surge of anti-French sentiment in Niger, a nation once under its colonial rule, tensions have escalated following a recent coup that ousted the civilian government. Reports suggest that the coup orchestrators have enlisted the assistance of Wagner mercenary forces to consolidate their grip on power.

The diplomatic rift between Niger and France intensifies as Macron's response comes in the wake of Niger's demand for the departure of French Ambassador Sylvain Itte within 48 hours. The demand was based on accusations of the ambassador disregarding an invitation for a ministry meeting. The ultimatum also referenced alleged actions by the French government that was deemed detrimental to Niger's interests.

Macron's stance underscores France's unwavering support for Mohamed Bazoum, the deposed President of Niger. Moreover, he expressed backing for any potential military intervention by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) within Niger.

Dismissive of junta leaders' allegations that attribute much of Niger's predicaments to its former colonial ruler, the French president remains resolute in his position. According to him, these claims do not hold water in light of the broader context.

"One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy,” Macron said.

Prepared with an intervention strategy, ECOWAS is positioned to address the situation. Bazoum, detained alongside his family, finds himself at the presidential palace since the July 26 coup, a condemned action by both France and the majority of Niger's neighboring countries.

France, actively assisting local forces in countering Islamic extremists, maintains a contingent of approximately 1,500 troops within Niger.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who also holds the ECOWAS chairmanship, is scheduled to convene with US President Joe Biden next month during the UN General Assembly. The anticipated discussions between the two leaders are expected to encompass the subject of Niger.

Image source: MSN News