Niger: Coup leaders announce reopening of land and air borders with five neighboring countries from Aug. 1 /update 7

Event

The National Council for the Protection of the Country (Conseil national pour la sauvegarde de la patrie, CNSP) announced the reopening of land and air borders with Algeria, Burkina Faso, Libya, Mali, and Chad from Aug. 1. The borders with Benin and Nigeria remain officially closed, while a nationwide curfew, originally 22:00-05:30, remains in place but adjusted to 00:01-05:00.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced a no-fly zone, the closure of borders with Niger, and the suspension of commercial and financial transactions with Niger July 30. They have also given the CNSP one week to release and reinstate Bazoum. If coup leaders fail to meet ECOWAS' demands, the regional body will reportedly consider various options, including military intervention.

On Aug. 1, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs announced plans to evacuate French and EU nationals currently in the country who have expressed a desire to leave. The evacuations are not mandatory; the operation is ongoing as of Aug. 2. The Italian Foreign Ministry has also announced an offer to evacuate Italian nationals from Niger.

Further coup-related protests are likely in Niamey and elsewhere. Gatherings are likely near prominent government buildings, Western embassies, and public squares, including the French Embassy, Presidential Palace, Place de la Concertation in front of the National Assembly, and President Bazoum's party headquarters. Clashes are likely if pro- and anti-CNSP groups demonstrate in proximity or if protesters engage in acts of public violence or ignore official orders to disperse.

Security will likely remain particularly 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. There have been no reported clashes involving armed forces as of Aug. 1. Shortages of basic commodities are likely if the border closures persist.

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 Abdourahmane 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 justified the removal of Bazoum citing junta several issues, such as insecurity and the state of the economy, among other matters.

On July 30, hundreds of supporters of the coup gathered outside of the French Embassy in Niamey. The demonstrators chanted anti-French and pro-Russia slogans and threw stones at the embassy complex. Security forces dispersed the gathering with tear gas.

Advice

Persons planning to travel to Niger should defer travel until the situation stabilizes. Those planning to leave Niger should contact their home consulate to confirm the feasibility of the exit. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Niger; if operating in Niamey or major cities, avoid nonessential travel 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 materialize. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Reconfirm the status of roads before leaving accommodations. Plan for possible disruptions to telecommunications networks. Refrain from taking photographs in public spaces due to heightened tensions nationwide. Stockpile essential items, including food, when possible. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.