Kamsi Anayo
The African Union (AU) on Tuesday suspended Niger from participating in all its activities as a fall out of the July coup in the troubled country,
The continental body noted that Niger would remain suspended until the restoration constitutional democracy in the country.
The AU’s decision to suspend the Niger was taken by the Peace and Security Council of the body during its latest meeting on the Niger coup and its fallout
The council decided “to immediately suspend the participation of Niger from all activities of the AU and its organs and institutions until the effective restoration of constitutional order in the country.”
It reiterated its “unequivocal condemnation” of the military coup that took place on July 26 in Niger, which resulted in the ousting of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum by a faction of military officers.
The council reaffirmed its full solidarity with the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its continued commitment to the restoration of constitutional order through diplomatic means.
“The council strongly rejected any external interference by any actor or any country outside the continent in the peace and security affairs in Africa.
“It also rejects engagements by private military companies in the continent in line with the 1977 OAU Convention for the Elimination of Mercenarism in Africa,” it added.
The Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was the predecessor of the AU.
It urged the military to place the supreme interests of Niger and its people above all else and to immediately and unconditionally return to the barracks, and submit to civilian authorities consistent with the constitution of Niger.
The council also reiterated its deep concern over the resurgence of military coups as it undermines democracy, peace, security and stability, as well as development in the continent,” it stated.