Attack on French Embassy: France accuses Niger junta of not stopping protesters
On Sunday, July 30, 2023, thousands of protesters stormed the streets in support of the military ruler Tiani Abdouramane. They accused France of spearheading retarded development and exploiting their resources.
In a joint communique on Monday, July 31, 2023, the French foreign affairs ministry and that of defense said, the protection of diplomatic areas and persons is guided by the Vienna Convention and must be respected.
“The French Embassy in Niamey was violently attacked by a group of people who seemed to have been prepared for the acts, while Nigerien forces did little to stop them,” the communique read.
France has refuted allegations that French soldiers used lethal force against the protesters.
Earlier in a televised outing, the communication lead for the junta said six Nigeriens were injured by French military used their weapons to push off the protesters.
Meanwhile, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, CNSP, led by the military junta, Tiani, has continued nationwide consultations with stakeholders such as businessmen, traditional and religious rulers, including the President of the Islamic Association of Niger.
