NIAMEY: Thousands of protest demonstrators in Niger on Sunday continued their protest rallies for a third day asking for former colonial power France to withdraw its army, as sought by the military rulers, which seized authority in the African country in July.
AFP reported that the protestors were chanting slogans like, “France get out” and repeating slogans heard at several rallies in the country’s capital since the military coup on July 26.
Niger: Protestors Demanding Withdrawal of French Army
Niger’s new rulers had fired a new verbal broadside at Paris on Friday, blaming France of “blatant interference” by supporting the country’s deposed President.
Since then, tens of thousands of protestors have joined in the rallies at a roundabout near to the Niger army base where French troops are stationed.
Read Also: Nigeria to Establish Minerals Corporation to Charm Investment
Ties with France, and partner in its fight against terrorism, went quickly downhill following France stood by deposed president Bazoum.
On August 3, the military rulers announced the scrapping of defense deals with Paris, which has around 1,500 soldiers stationed in Niger. Niger’s military governments have also announced to expel the French envoy Sylvain Itte and said they are also withdrawing his diplomatic protection. The rulers said his presence in the country constituted a danger to public order.
However, French President Macron last Monday lauded Itte’s work in Niger and said the ambassador to remain in the African country despite being given a deadline to leave the country.
