In a press conference held in Niamey on Thursday, Niger’s military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for what he deemed as “bad faith.”
Expressing disappointment at the absence of most member states, Zeine remarked, “Today, apart from Togo, which agreed to make the trip, ECOWAS has unfortunately not arrived.”
Niamey had extended an invitation to ECOWAS representatives to address differences arising from the heavy economic and financial sanctions imposed by the bloc since the July 2023 military coup that ousted elected president Mohamed Bazoum.
Despite Togo’s presence, the bloc has maintained a cold shoulder toward Niger.
Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, who attended the press conference, refrained from commenting on Zeine’s allegations of bad faith within ECOWAS.
Zeine emphasized that Niger had been unjustly sanctioned and had made efforts to reach an understanding, but no progress had been achieved.
Since the coup, ECOWAS has insisted on the release of Mohamed Bazoum as a condition for rolling back sanctions.
While some West African neighbors, such as Benin, have softened their stance, Niger is pushing for regional talks to precede a national dialogue outlining the path back to democracy.
The regime, aiming to transition to a civilian administration after three years, seeks cooperation from ECOWAS members in resolving the ongoing diplomatic impasse.
