In a significant escalation of tensions, the military junta in Niger has stripped the French ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itte, of his diplomatic immunity. The junta has further instructed the local police to expel him from the country. This comes after the French envoy declined to engage with the coup leaders responsible for the ousting of Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023.
Last Friday, the junta had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Ambassador Itte to leave Niger. The decision follows a series of clashes between the French government and the junta. The Nigerien foreign ministry expressed its concern that French actions were running counter to the nation’s interests.
As part of its response, the junta has also revoked the visas of the ambassador and his family. In contrast, French President Emmanuel Macron has affirmed that Ambassador Itte will maintain his post despite the junta’s directive. Speaking at a diplomatic conference, Macron emphasized that France doesn’t consider itself an adversary of Niger.
Macron asserted that France’s stance remains consistent: it does not recognize the coup leaders as legitimate. He commended the efforts of diplomats facing challenging situations across various nations. He underscored that the true issue lies with the coup leaders endangering Nigeriens by derailing the fight against terrorism and undermining sound economic policies.
The ongoing dispute has not only resulted in diplomatic tensions but also manifested physically, with the French embassy in Niamey reportedly losing access to water and electricity. While the junta’s actions reflect a tougher stance, international observers are closely watching the situation for further developments.