Niger’s transition to democracy faces severe setbacks as a national commission proposes a minimum five-year transition period, following the military coup ousting President Bazoum. The commission recommends the dissolution of political parties, amnesty for coup participants, and promotes the junta leader, raising doubts about the restoration of civilian rule and democratic elections.
In Niger, the dynamics of power are shifting under the military junta’s control. A national commission, tasked with overseeing the transition to democratic governance, has recommended extending the transition period to a minimum of five years following the military ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023. The junta initially suggested a three-year timeframe, which was rejected by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Notably, the political opposition and civil organizations have largely boycotted these discussions.
The recent recommendations from the national commission appear to reinforce military rule and hamper any genuine transition towards democracy in Niger. The proposed measures, such as amnesty for coup participants and promotion of military leaders, diminish hopes for restoration of civilian governance, raising concerns over the future of democratic processes in a country already grappling with significant insecurity.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
