Niger: As of July 29, situation remains mostly unchanged following July 26 coup; curfew, border closure in effect /update 5

Event

As of July 29, the situation remains mostly unchanged after the president of the National Council for the Protection of the Country (Conseil national pour la sauvegarde de la patrie, CNSP), General Tchiani, announced the removal of President Mohammed Bazoum on July 28. Bazoum reportedly remains detained in good health; he has not formally resigned.

A nationwide 22:00-05:00 curfew remains in place until further notice, and the country's land and air borders are closed. Commercial air traffic will remain suspended through at least Aug. 5, according to the US Embassy. Foreign diplomatic sources, including France, the UK, and the US, have advised their nationals in the country to minimize unnecessary movements as a precaution.

There have been no reported clashes involving armed forces. Pro-Bazoum and Pro-coup protests have been reported in Niamey, notably near the Presidential Palace, the Place de la Concertation in front of the National Assembly, and other cities such as Dosso. Unrest erupted amid the coup, with pro-coup protestors vandalizing President Bazoum’s party headquarters and targeting some party members on July 27. Other demonstrations went peacefully, including on July 28. Despite a ban on all political activity, activists associated with the M62 Movement (Sacred Union for the Safeguarding of the Sovereignty and Dignity of the People) have announced plans to stage a protest march from Place Tuomo to Place de la Consultation in Niamey starting at 08:30 July 30 in support of the transitional regime. It remains unclear how many participants the event may draw.

Security will remain extremely tight in Niamey, major cities, and along the country’s border crossings over the coming days. Security measures may include roadblocks, checkpoints, and searches of vehicles and pedestrians. Coup leaders could implement further restrictions, including restricting telecommunications. Clashes between supporters of Bazoum and military leaders could occur with little-to-no warning; a counter-coup attempt by soldiers loyal to Bazoum and his administration cannot be ruled out in the coming days. Further protests or mass public celebrations by civilian activists are likely over the coming days; such gatherings could include skirmishes between opposing groups and clashes with security forces, as well as acts of vandalism.

Context

The coup took place early July 26, when members of the Presidential Guard sequestered President Bazoum within the presidential palace. Bazoum was allegedly about to dismiss General Tchiani after the latter had served two presidential administrations. It was initially unclear whether the army supported the coup, but the latter sided with the coup members. A group of soldiers announced overnight July 26-27, that they had ended Niger's current regime and suspended the country's constitution. Tchiani, on July 28, justified the coup citing junta several issues, such as insecurity and the state of the economy, among other matters.

Advice

Avoid unnecessary travel until the situation stabilizes. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Niger; if operating in Niamey or major cities, shelter in place until the security situation stabilizes. Heed official directives, including curfew orders. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of police and soldiers, and any demonstrations that may materialize. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Reconfirm transport services, including flight reservations, before leaving accommodations. Plan for possible disruptions to telecommunication networks. Refrain from taking photographs in public spaces due to heightened tensions nationwide. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.