The UAE emphasised its support for the sovereignty and unity of the country within the framework of constitutional institutions…reports Asian Lite News
The UAE has condemned the coup attempt in the Republic of Niger, and stressed the importance of maintaining stability and security in the country.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) affirmed that the UAE is following with great concern the developments in Niger.
The UAE emphasised its support for the sovereignty and unity of the country within the framework of constitutional institutions and the rule of law, to achieve the aspirations of the people of Niger.
The Niger military has declared support for coup leaders who have reportedly seized the presidency of the West African nation, CNN reported. World leaders and humanitarian bodies have issued stark warnings against the people involved in the coup.
Niger’s army command on Thursday said it was supporting the takeover against Niger President Mohamed Bazoum to stop the bloodshed and maintain “the well-being of our populations,” according to CNN. In a statement released on Twitter, Niger’s army command said it had to “preserve the physical integrity of the president of the republic and his family,” and “avoid a deadly confrontation… that could create a bloodbath and affect the security of the population.” It further said that any foreign military intervention “risks having disastrous and uncontrolled consequences.”
The statement said, “Our country remains prey to insecurity imposed by the terrorist armed groups and other organized criminal groups.” On Wednesday, Niger President Mohamed Bazoum was apparently taken by members of the presidential guard and his precise whereabouts remain unknown.
On Thursday, Niger’s Presidential office said, “All Nigeriens who love democracy and freedom will see to it.” The statement shared on Twitter did not give details of whether the Niger President is still being detained, according to CNN.
When Bazoum assumed office in 2021, it was the first time that there was a democratic transfer of power in Niger after years of military coups since the nation gained independence in 1960.
On Wednesday, visuals emerged that showed hundreds of pro-Bazoum protesters taking to the streets of Niamey as national institutions were shut down and land borders remained temporarily closed.
