The Intelligence from The Economist Gun-shy: why Niger’s coup stands, for now
Aug 18, 2023
Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, delves into the ongoing coup in Niger and the wavering military response from ECOWAS. The discussion highlights the regional implications of economic sanctions and how they tie into the decline of the Russian ruble. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, pays tribute to Richard Simpson, a trailblazer in consumer product safety, recounting his efforts to ensure safer products in the marketplace while reflecting on the ongoing tension between safety regulations and personal freedom.
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Military Intervention in Niger Faces Opposition
- ECOWAS threatened military intervention in Niger if President Bazoum isn't reinstated.
- However, there's growing opposition within West Africa and the African Union to such action.
Junta's Defiance Weakens ECOWAS Credibility
- The junta in Niger is digging in, showing little interest in reinstating President Bazoum.
- Diplomatic efforts haven't yielded much, raising concerns about the credibility of ECOWAS's threats.
Junta Consolidates Power, Rallies Support
- Inside Niger, the junta is consolidating its power by appointing a civilian prime minister and cabinet.
- They are rallying public support against intervention, claiming it's driven by foreign powers like France.