Niger/ECOWAS: CNSP Requests Rejected, President Faure Gnassingbé Has a Tough Task Ahead
The ECOWAS Court of Justice pronounced its verdict on Thursday, December 7th, regarding requests made by the CNSP in Niger and seven other individuals or entities, concerning the sanctions imposed by the sub-regional organization.
These sanctions were attributed to the Nigerien State on July 30, 2023, following the coup d’état on July 26 that ousted former Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum. The legality of these sanctions has been a subject of controversy since their announcement. They have been contested by the military regime in power, leading to their recourse to the West African court.
Gathered in Abuja, Nigeria, on Thursday, December 7th, the ECOWAS court deemed these appeals inadmissible, arguing that the military in power in Niamey are not recognized by the organization. Consequently, the Nigerien State lacks the authority to approach the judicial bodies of the community.
The same decision was made for the other associated requests, particularly for the Nigerien Electricity Company and the Chamber of Commerce. According to the court judges, «their interests align with those of the State of Niger (…) represented by the military».
Choosen by the CNSP to mediate between the West African organization, the international community, and the State of Niger, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé has a daunting task ahead. He bears the heavy responsibility of breaking down the barriers established between ECOWAS and the military regime, aiming to bring both sides to the negotiation table and towards an agreement for the benefit of the brotherly Nigerien people.
