Thousands in Niger rally in support of coup leaders

An estimated 30,000 individuals have gathered at a stadium in Niamey, Niger's capital, to demonstrate their backing for the military coup that deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. As a deadline set by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for the return of Bazoum to power is nearing, the rally's purpose is to show support for the coup leadership.

Members of the ruling National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) arrived at the stadium, named after Seyni Kountche, a past coup leader, to enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. The atmosphere at the event was festive, with many attendees displaying Russian flags and portraits of the military leaders.

During a speech at the gathering, General Mohamed Toumba, one of the CNSP leaders, denounced those he referred to as "lurking in the shadows" and plotting subversion against Niger's progress. He voiced awareness of their intentions and referred to their plans as "Machiavellian."

This rally coincides with ECOWAS' ultimatum issued on July 30, urging the coup leaders to reinstate Bazoum. Despite this ultimatum, the coup leaders have not displayed any intention of yielding power.

Amidst this situation, ECOWAS military chiefs have developed a plan for possible military intervention to address the crisis. While some neighboring countries, including Senegal and Ivory Coast, have expressed readiness to participate, others such as Nigeria have urged the exploration of non-forceful options.

Non-ECOWAS neighbors Algeria and Chad, possessing strong regional militaries, have opposed military action and stated their non-intervention stance.

Neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both under military leadership, have cautioned against an ECOWAS troop invasion of Niger, asserting that it would be considered a declaration of war against them as well.

The coup in Niger has significant implications for the United States and its allies, who considered the country a key partner in counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region. The coup threatens the stability of this region, where extremist groups associated with al-Qaeda and ISIS have expanded their influence and posed a threat to coastal nations.

The involvement of various countries, including France and the US, in providing military support to Niger has come into question due to the coup's impact on regional stability.

While the coup leaders have justified their actions by citing growing insecurity, data from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project indicates a nearly 40 percent decrease in conflict incidents in Niger compared to the previous six months. This contrasts with escalating attacks in Mali and Burkina Faso, which have seen shifts in their security dynamics and relationships with foreign military actors.