Niger’s Foreign Minister, Hassoumi Massaoudou, has made controversial remarks regarding Algeria’s stance on the political situation in Niger following the recent coup. In an interview with “Radio France,” Massaoudou responded to questions about Algeria’s initiative for a transitional period of six months, led by a consensual Nigerien civilian, stating, “Algeria’s opinion doesn’t matter to us. Algeria has never been involved in our affairs. We are firmly part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). We have treaties with ECOWAS, not with Algeria.”
He further emphasized that ECOWAS would not heed Algeria’s stance. “The clear demand from ECOWAS and all these countries is the release of President Mohamed Bazoum and his reinstatement. Accepting a transition means accepting the coup’s status quo, which ECOWAS leaders do not want to hear about.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Massaoudou commented on Algeria’s involvement, suggesting that Algeria unnecessarily inserted itself into a political crisis that doesn’t concern it, instead of focusing on its affairs in North Africa.
In a decisive statement, Massaoudou believed that Algeria’s perspective on Niger’s current situation, stemming from the coup that took place on July 26, which resulted in the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum by the Presidential Guard, means nothing to Niger.
The Implications of Delayed Military Action
Regarding the delay in military intervention by ECOWAS, Massaoudou stated that it’s a mistake for the coup leaders to believe this delay works in their favor. He emphasized that ECOWAS leaders are determined and have given negotiations every chance, but it seems they have not succeeded. He believes that ECOWAS will now move to the next planned phase, which is preparing for military intervention.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune had previously declared his firm rejection of any external military intervention in Niger, considering it a direct threat to Algeria.