- In a statement by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the US has concluded that a military coup d’etat took place in the country.
- This is the second time the US government has announced the suspension of aid to the country after the coup that saw ouster of President Mohamed Bazoum.
Image: FILE
The United States has announced the further suspension of Foreign Aid to West African country Niger.
In a statement by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the US has concluded that a military coup d’etat took place in the country.
"Pursuant to section 7008 of the Department of State’s annual appropriations act, the United States is suspending most US assistance to the government of Niger," the statement reads.
"We also note the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s suspension of all assistance to Niger, including all preparatory work on its $302 million Niger Regional Transportation Compact and all new activity on its 2018 Compact."
This is the second time the US government has announced the suspension of aid to the country after the coup that saw the ouster of President Mohamed Bazoum.
On August 5, the US temporarily paused certain foreign assistance programs to the government of Niger. The assistance totalled about $200 million.
"That assistance is now also suspended pursuant to section 7008 of the Department of State’s annual appropriations act," Miller said.
He, however, noted that life-saving humanitarian, food, and health assistance will continue to benefit the people of Niger.
The US said that the resumption of US assistance will require action by the National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland to usher in democratic governance in a quick and credible timeframe.
Miller said the US intends to continue to work with regional governments, including in Niger, to advance shared interests in West Africa.
The US also insisted on the release of deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and all those detained during the coup.
"We stand with the Nigerien people in their aspirations for democracy, prosperity, and stability. Since the coup, we have supported the Economic Community of West African States’ efforts to work with Niger to achieve a return to democratic rule."
On July 26, 2023, the Niger junta ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and placed him under house arrest.
The military leaders have since resisted international pressure to release Bazoum and return him to power, even as the West African regional bloc Ecowas threatened military action.
Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of the presidential guard which led the revolt appointed himself head of the country's new military government
On August 14, the junta announced plans to prosecute Bazoum for high treason and undermining national security.