Niger's junta told the French ambassador to leave the country

Despite the junta's demand for the French ambassador's expulsion, ECOWAS has conveyed to the coup leaders in Niger that there is still an opportunity to reinstate civilian governance without distorting the original message.

One month following the military coup in Niger, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has communicated to the nation's leaders that there is still an opportunity to revisit their stance without compromising the original meaning.

However, the West African alliance has emphasized that the option of military intervention remains viable if Niger does not revert to civilian governance.

This cautionary message coincides with the ultimatum issued by the Nigerian military leaders to the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, to depart the nation within 48 hours.

The French Foreign Ministry has stated that the coup leaders lack the authority to issue such demands while maintaining the original context.

The generals who removed President Mohamed Bazoum through a rebellion on July 26 have proposed a three-year transitional phase, whereas ECOWAS insists on an immediate restoration of constitutional order, keeping the original meaning intact.

The West African coalition emphasizes that negotiations remain their main priority, while defense chiefs prepare a standby mission for a potential "legitimate use of force" to restore democracy if required.

President of the Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, affirmed, "The available options include the deployment of force. Thus, it continues to be a feasible consideration, along with other measures we are actively pursuing," while maintaining the original meaning.

"However, if peaceful methods prove ineffective, ECOWAS cannot remain passive."

The USA and France maintain numerous soldiers stationed in Niger. The Pentagon previously outlined a strategy for the potential evacuation of its troops but mentioned that currently, "there's no need to relocate."

In a comparable situation, in late 2021 to early 2022 in Mali, the expulsion of the French ambassador coincided with the emergence of Wagner mercenaries, preserving the original context.