Radio War Nerd EP 391 — Niger Coup, or "Disdain for Democracy"
Aug 16, 2023
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- The hosts reflect on their experiences in Pristina
- Anecdotes about interactions with French and Albanian speakers
- Personal anecdote about a confident young kid in Serbia
- Discussion on democracy's complexities
- Analysis of a viral song and its claims
- Discussion on a controversial video and class dynamics
- Insights into Niger's colonial history and cultural differences
- Pattern seen in former French colonies
- Niger's military training and foreign presence
- Consequences of the Libyan intervention
- Political situation in Niger and foreign intervention
Niger's political landscape is characterized by ethnic divisions that historically shift power between different groups.
Niger has seen an increase in foreign military presence and training, particularly from the US and France.
ECOWAS, led by Nigeria, has intervened in Niger to restore democratic rule and combat extremist groups in the Sahel region.
Deep dives
Niger's Political Situation and Ethnic Dynamics
Niger experienced a recent coup that overthrew President Isufu and the country's political landscape is characterized by ethnic divisions. The majority ethnic group, the Hausa, are mainly located in the central and southeastern regions. The Zarma, Songhai, and Fulani are also prominent ethnic groups. The political power has historically shifted between these groups, with the Zarma having more influence during French colonial rule. Ethnic tensions persist, but information on their current extent is limited.
Increased Military Presence and French Influence
Niger has seen a significant increase in military bases and training from foreign powers, including the US and France. The US operates drone bases, such as Air Base 201 and an undisclosed CIA base, which has contributed to the growing militarization of the country. French forces have dominated the security landscape, but their influence has waned due to various coups in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. Niger's geographical remoteness and abundant uranium resources have attracted foreign military interests.
Intervention by ECOWAS and Common Interests
ECOWAS, led by Nigeria, has intervened in Niger to restore democratic rule. Senegal and Ivory Coast have also joined the intervention. There appears to be a common interest among regional elites and foreign powers in maintaining stability and democracy in Niger. The intervention is seen as an effort to prevent further political instability and combat the influence of extremist groups in the Sahel region.
Support for the Hunta in Niger
The recent poll conducted in Niger showed that the majority of respondents favored the military leaders remaining in power until new elections. 39% of those polled wanted the military leaders to remain in power, while an additional 34% supported an extended period of military leadership. Only 16% wanted the coup to end and President Bazum to be reinstated immediately. This reveals significant support for the Hunta, despite the disdain often expressed by external actors.
Disdain for Democracy and Trust in Foreign Actors
The poll also revealed a high level of trust in Russia among the Nigerien population, with over 60% of respondents naming Russia as the foreign actor they trust the most. This contrasts with the lower levels of trust placed in other foreign actors such as Saudi Arabia, United States, China, and France. The root of this trust in Russia seems to stem from its opposition to France, as France's negative portrayal and actions have fueled resentment towards the French government. The dynamic of imperial sentiment and distrust towards France in Central Africa is complex, involving a mix of intellectual leftism, nationalism, and imperialistic aspirations among key stakeholders.