Somto Bisina
General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of the Niger Junta, has taken a significant step towards resolving the current coup in the country by embracing diplomatic dialogue.
During a meeting held on Saturday with Nigeria’s intervention team, headed by Islamic scholars led by Bala Lau, the national chairman of Jamatul Izalatu Bida Waikamatu Sunnah, Tchiani expressed his willingness to engage in constructive discussions to find a peaceful solution to the crisis.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe meeting, as confirmed by a statement issued and personally signed by Bala Lau on Sunday, was aimed at encouraging Tchiani and other military leaders involved in the coup to opt for dialogue over conflict. In response, Tchiani welcomed the proposition, asserting that they were open to exploring diplomatic avenues to resolve the matter.
Tchiani expressed disappointment with the approach taken by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which had issued ultimatums without hearing the junta’s perspective. The General conveyed his readiness for dialogue, as communicated by Niger Republic’s Prime Minister, Ali Zeine.
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Zeine conveyed that the leader of Niger Republic was prepared for dialogue and hoped for an upcoming discussion with ECOWAS in the near future. The objective would be to lift the imposed sanctions.
The situation in Niger Republic has been turbulent since the coup d’état by the presidential guard that removed President Mohamed Bazoum from power late last month. ECOWAS responded swiftly by imposing sanctions on the junta and delivering an ultimatum, demanding their resignation within a week to avoid potential military intervention.
However, the deadline of August 6th came and went without any immediate change in the political scenario. ECOWAS leaders have consistently stated their preference for a diplomatic resolution, reserving the deployment of troops as a last resort.
The recent development, where General Tchiani expressed willingness to engage in dialogue, provides a glimmer of hope towards a more peaceful resolution to the crisis.
This gesture is a significant step towards fostering open communication and understanding between the junta and regional leaders. While ECOWAS leaders have not ruled out the possibility of military intervention, the willingness of General Tchiani to explore diplomatic avenues is a positive indication of potential progress towards resolving the political impasse in Niger Republic.
