AU strongly condemns Niger’s coup

(PANA)-- The African Union (AU) warned Friday that the decision not to allow any unconstitutional takeover of government in Africa would immediately take effect after confirming Thursday’s power grab by the military in Niger.

African Union Commission Chairperson Jean Ping said he was following the latest developments in Niger’s capital, Niamey, with ‘concern’ and strongly condemned the military coup. Ping said the principle of ‘zero tolerance to coups’ in Africa would immediately be put into action, implying immediate sanctions would be slammed on the coup leaders.

‘The chairperson is following with concern the prevailing situation in Niger. He is in direct contact with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, as well as with other concerned international actors,’ AU said in a statement Friday.

Niger’s military stormed President Mamadou Tandja’s office Thursday, during a cabinet meeting, and arrested him along with some of his ministers. The soldiers have since suspended the country’s constitution. Ping called for a speedy return to constitutional order and affirmed the readiness of the AU, in close collaboration with ECOWAS, to facilitate such a process.

The AU attributed the power seizure in Niger to the latest political developments in the country, following a series of political manoeuvres by President Tandja to remain in power after his constitutionally-allowed two terms ended last December.

<< Back to main