Pope expresses hope for peaceful solution to Niger crisis

Pope Francis was speaking on August 20th as he delivered his blessing while reciting the Angelus noon prayer at St Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

Pope Francis told the faithful that he is keenly following the developments in Niger with concern.

The Pontiff is appealing for peace in Niger and stability in the entire Sahel region. He called on the international community to find a peaceful solution as soon as possible for the good of everyone.

He made the statement amidst growing tension between the military junta in Niger and ECOWAS who are hoping to restore constitutional order in the country militarily.

General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the coup leader while speaking on the national television late on Saturday proposed a three-year transition to civilian rule after meeting a delegation of West African leaders and warned that “any attack on Niger would not be a walk in the park for those involved.”

Gen. Tchiani gave no details on the planned transition to power, saying that the principles for the move would be decided within 30 days at a dialogue to be hosted by the ruling military council.

The coup leader claimed ECOWAS was getting ready to attack Niger by setting up an occupying army in collaboration with a foreign army and denounced what he called “illegal and inhuman” sanctions imposed by the regional bloc.

Meanwhile, many citizens gathered on the streets of Niamey pledging to fight alongside the military junta should ECOWAS invade Niger.

Thousands of people lined up outside the main stadium to register as fighters volunteers to assist with other needs in case the military requires support.

One of the event organizers, Amsarou Bako claimed the military was not involved in the recruitment although it is aware of the initiative.