In response to the recent coup in Niger, the European Union (EU) says it stands firmly behind ECOWAS and vows to support any measures taken by the regional bloc against the destabilising act. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell made this commitment in a statement following an ECOWAS Summit held on Sunday.
Borrell stated, ‘The EU will support them [measures] rapidly and resolutely,’ affirming the EU’s alignment with the strong condemnation expressed by the heads of state within the sub-region against the ‘unacceptable’ coup. The EU’s unequivocal support extends to the legitimacy of elected President Mohamed Bazoum, whom Borrell emphasises as the sole head of the state of Niger.
The EU foreign policy chief stressed that any authority other than President Bazoum’s cannot be recognised, underlining the significance of Bazoum’s immediate release and reinstatement. The coup leaders’ actions in detaining the elected President are deemed illegitimate by the EU and the international community.
Josep Borrell firmly rejected all accusations of foreign interference in Niger and expressed the EU’s commitment to holding the coup leaders accountable for any attacks on civilians, diplomatic personnel, or facilities. The EU is resolute in its stance against any attempts to undermine democracy and the rule of law in Niger.
Last week, a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country announced the coup on Nigerien state TV after detaining President Bazoum. They cited the ‘deteriorating security situation and bad governance’ as reasons for their actions.
President Mohamed Bazoum’s election in 2021 marked Niger’s first democratic power transition since gaining independence from French colonial rule in 1960. His legitimacy and the democratic process are pivotal to the EU’s support for Niger’s stability and continued progress.
The EU’s commitment to standing alongside ECOWAS and supporting measures to address the coup underscores the international community’s united stance against unconstitutional actions and its determination to uphold democracy and the will of the people in Niger.
