Niger – After eighteen months of military rule, the first day of the long-awaited national conference began, signaling a new phase of the country’s political landscape. The conference was convened to address pressing issues surrounding the transition process and to map the path forward for the future of Niger’s governance.
In his opening address, General Abdourahamane Tiani, the leader of Niger’s military junta, reiterated his commitment to returning the country to constitutional order, but also emphasized the uncertain timeline for this transition. He noted that the specific duration of the transition period would only be decided once the conference had concluded, underscoring the importance of broad national consensus on the process.
“The duration of the transition will be determined by the discussions and outcomes of this conference. We aim to establish a solid foundation for a peaceful and stable future for Niger, guided by the collective will of the people,” General Tiani stated.
The national conference brings together over 700 delegates representing various social and professional sectors, the diaspora, and the military, with the goal of engaging in open dialogue to address key issues such as the restoration of democratic governance, national security, and the rule of law.
The military junta’s assumption of power in July 2023, following the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, had been met with mixed reactions both domestically and internationally. While some support the transition as a necessary step to restore order and address corruption, others remain wary of the military’s commitment to handing over power to a civilian government.
In the lead-up to the conference, Nigeriens have expressed hope that this dialogue could mark a turning point in the country’s political future, offering a chance to create a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable government structure. However, much remains uncertain, and the coming days of the conference are expected to be crucial in determining the country’s trajectory in the post-coup era.
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