Niger: Coup leaders reopen air borders to passenger traffic on Sept. 3 /update 11

Event

Leaders of the National Council for the Protection of the Country (Conseil national pour la sauvegarde de la patrie, CNSP) announced on Sept. 3 the resumption of commercial air traffic initially suspended on Aug. 6. Coup leaders previously 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 as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) continues to implement a no-fly zone, the closure of borders with Niger, and the suspension of commercial and financial transactions with the country. Disruptions to humanitarian aid and the transport of goods have been reported due to the border closure with Nigeria and Benin. Nigeria has cut its electricity supply to Niger, leading to power outages in parts of the country, including Niamey. On Aug. 22, the African Union (AU) announced Niger's suspension from the bloc until civilian rule was restored.

The situation remains tense in front of the French Embassy as of Sept. 4. While the CNSP demanded the departure of French forces and the French ambassador from the country, the French have refused so far, citing the lack of legitimacy of the coup leaders.

Coup-related demonstrations have regularly occurred since July 26, during which demonstrators have chanted anti-French slogans and waved Russian flags. Further events are likely in Niamey and elsewhere. Gatherings are particularly likely near prominent government buildings, Western embassies, including the French Embassy, public squares, Presidential Palace, and Place de la Concertation in front of the National Assembly. Clashes are likely if pro- and anti-CNSP groups demonstrate in proximity to one another or if protesters engage in acts of public violence or ignore official orders to disperse.

Security will likely remain especially tight in Niamey, other major cities, and along the country's border crossings over the coming weeks. 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 remains possible. There have been no reported clashes involving armed forces since the coup.

Context

General Abdourahmane Tchiani, leader of the CNSP, announced on Aug. 20 that he was planning a three-year transition towards democratic rule. The General also announced he would submit a detailed proposal within 30 days. The (ECOWAS) has rejected the plan, and reiterated its demand that the country's junta step down and release and reappoint deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. On Aug. 10, ECOWAS announced it was activating its "standby force" ahead of a possible military intervention; the regional bloc's next steps remain unclear.

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 Tchiani after the latter had served two presidential administrations. Tchiani justified the removal of Bazoum by citing several issues, including prevailing insecurity and the state of the economy.

Several countries had previously evacuated a number of their nationals from the country, including France, the US, the UK, Italy, and Spain, among others.

Advice

Persons planning to travel to Niger should consider deferring nonessential travel until the situation stabilizes. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Niger. Heed official directives, including any 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. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.