In Niamey, Niger’s capital, thousands gathered on Friday, July 26, 2024, to mark the first anniversary of the military coup that ousted civilian president Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023.
The event, held at the largest stadium in the city, saw attendees dressed in clothing adorned with photos of regime members, chanting the name of junta chief General Abdourahamane Tiani.
Security was tight, with armoured vehicles surrounding the venue. Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine praised the event, saying, “Never in our country’s recent history has an event received such great popular support.” Although Tiani greeted attendees to the beats of a traditional drum, he did not address the crowd.
The junta, which expelled French forces last year and is set to finalize the departure of US troops in August, has distanced itself from ECOWAS, instead forming a “confederation” with the military rulers of Burkina Faso and Mali, who sent representatives to the celebration. Despite ongoing attacks from jihadist groups, many attendees expressed support for the junta, believing they are making progress.
Flags of Turkey, Iran, and Russia were also visible, indicating Niger’s growing ties with these countries. Meanwhile, ousted president Mohamed Bazoum remains detained in his official residence. The anniversary was declared a public holiday, signifying its importance to the current regime.
