Niger coup: Citizens attack politicians on the street and set Ruling party HQ on fire (videos)

supporters of the recent coup have launched a violent attack on the headquarters of the ousted president’s party. The incident involved brutal assaults on politicians allied with President Mohamed Bazoum, who was taken captive during the coup.

Groups of civilians, some waving Russian flags, engaged in violent confrontations, beating up politicians associated with President Bazoum and setting the ruling party’s headquarters on fire. Moreover, cars parked outside the premises were stoned and set ablaze, escalating the chaos and destruction.

The coup was announced via television by certain soldiers, leading to international reactions from countries like Russia, the US, France, and the United Nations. These entities called for President Bazoum’s release, considering him a significant Western ally in the region’s fight against Islamist militants in West Africa.

Notably, both the US and France have historical ties with Niger, having colonized the country in the past and maintaining military bases there, particularly due to its rich uranium resources. These nations were among the first to condemn the coup, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assuring President Bazoum of Washington’s unwavering support.

Despite the volatile situation, President Bazoum remained defiant, taking to Twitter to assert that the hard-won achievements of the nation would be safeguarded. His foreign minister also attempted to rally support and encourage dialogue, but the army chief of staff publicly backed the coup, aiming to prevent internal fighting within the armed forces.

In the aftermath of the coup, Niamey, the capital of Niger, witnessed a mix of reactions. While shops and markets resumed business operations, coup supporters took to the streets to express their backing for the recent change in power. Outside the National Assembly, hundreds of demonstrators displayed Russian flags, while others held up hand-written signs voicing opposition to foreign military bases, particularly denouncing France.

Amidst the turmoil, police intervened by firing tear gas to disperse protesters who had gathered at the ruling party’s headquarters. Party activists hastily retreated upon seeing the approaching demonstrators.

The motivations behind the coup supporters’ actions were rooted in accusations of corruption against the ruling party and dissatisfaction with its handling of the security situation, particularly its response to the long-standing jihadist insurgency in the country.

The situation remains highly volatile, with concerns mounting over the potential escalation of violence and its impact on the stability of the region. The international community closely watches developments, calling for a peaceful resolution and an end to the unrest, while also emphasizing the need to address underlying issues to ensure lasting peace and progress for Niger and its people.

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