Boula, who once led the rebel Touareg groups and is also the former Minister of Tourism, announced that he had launched a political movement called the “Council of Resistance for the Republic (CRR)” that rejected the junta government.
In a written statement shared with the public by Boula, it was emphasized that junta leader Abdurrahmane Tchiani betrayed the trust placed in him for the sake of his personal interests at a time when Niger was the victim of a tragedy on July 26, and the social problems in the country and the fight against terrorism were going well.
It was pointed out that the junta categorically rejected mediation attempts, “manipulating the masses and summoning war criminals known as Wagner” to the country.
At this point, it was noted that the CRR is a political movement that defends the constitutional order and will fight for the return of President Mohammed Bazum.
“The CRR calls on the people respectful soldiers to end this uprising and arrest General Tchiani immediately,” the statement said. expression was used.
“The CRR will use any means necessary to thwart this treacherous attempt by irresponsible soldiers who disregard the will of the people.” In the statement, it was emphasized that the possible military intervention plan of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was supported.
Uncertainty continues in Niger
After the military coup in Niger on July 26, ECOWAS gave the military junta 7 days on July 30 to release President Mohammed Bazum and return to duty. The one-week deadline given by ECOWAS to the military junta expired as of midnight on 6 August.
ECOWAS stated that if their demands are not met within this period, they will consider every option, including military intervention, and contrary to expectations, it did not initiate a military operation as the time expired.
In a statement released by the military junta, the National Council for the Protection of the Homeland (CNSP), a few hours before the deadline, it was announced that the Niger airspace was closed until the second order in case of a possible attack.
The ECOWAS countries will meet again on 10 August in Abuja, Nigeria, to define a new roadmap for Niger.
coup in Niger
In Niger, President Mohammed Bazum was detained by elements of the Presidential Guard Regiment on July 26, and that evening the military announced that he had seized power.
General Abdurrahmane Tchiani, Commander of the Presidential Guard Regiment, assumed the leadership of the National Council for the Protection of the Homeland (CNSP) junta on July 28 and became the head of the transitional government.