The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has rejected the three-year transition plan proposed by Niger Republic’s military junta.
ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, announced the decision of the inter-governmental body of West African countries in an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
It will be recalled that the coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, had at a meeting with ECOWAS delegation, led by General Abadulsalami Abubakar, retd, in Niamey on Saturday, promised the military government would return Niger Republic to democracy in three years.
The coup leader gave no details of the plan, saying only the principles for the transition would be decided within 30 days at a dialogue to be hosted by the junta.
“Our ambition is not to confiscate power. Transition period will not exceed three years. Meanwhile, political parties are urged to submit their vision for the transition within 30 days,” Tiani had said.
The junta leader spoke after meeting with an ECOWAS delegation, led by Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Reacting to Tiani’s proposal, Musah said ECOWAS would no longer accept prolonged transition periods in the region.
“ECOWAS is not accepting any prolonged transition again in the region. They just have to get ready to hand over in the shortest possible time.
“The earlier they give power back to civilians and concentrate on their primary responsibility, that is, defending the territorial integrity of Niger, the better for them.”
Musah added that the “military aspect is very much on”.
The junta leader said Niger Republic did not want a war but would defend itself against any foreign intervention, if compelled to fight.
