Niger coup: Military junta releases statement, promises return to democracy
On August 9, 2023, a group of soldiers led by Colonel Mohamed Bazoum overthrew the government of Niger. The coup took place just hours after President Mohamed Bazoum was sworn in for a second term. The junta has promised to return the country to democracy, but many people are skeptical due to other coup that have taken place on the continent in the past. The junta released a statement on August 10, 2023 promising to hold elections within 12 months and to respect the constitution. The statement also said that the junta would not tolerate any violence or looting. The statement has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have welcomed the junta's promises, while others have expressed skepticism. Some people believe that the junta is sincere in its promises, while others believe that the junta is just trying to buy time. The junta's promises will be tested in the coming months. If the junta is able to hold free and fair elections within 12 months, it will be