INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
By Filipe Figueiredo*(Analysis) Niger, the latest Sahel nation to experience a military coup, is currently witnessing an intensifying power
has been independent since 1960, and this represented the first democratic transition in its history.General Omar Tchiani
(Photo Internet reproduction)Before this, the nation had undergone four successful military overthrows and several attempted ones.The recent
constitution was dissolved, state institutions and political parties suspended, borders closed, a curfew enforced, and a warning issued
against any foreign intervention.This revolt in Niger is the fourth military rebellion within the Sahel region in the last three years,
following Mali, Burkina Faso, and Sudan.The Sahel region is known as a transition zone between the Sahara to the north and the jungle and
savanna regions to the south.Recently, the Sahel has emerged as a hub of jihadist activities, with several extremist groups operating in the
area and ongoing internal conflicts.Niger is rich in mineral wealth, including uranium, which fuels French nuclear power plants.The nation
provides around 5% of the global uranium supply and about 30% of the uranium used by France.This strong connection to France is not
surprising, as four of the five countries mentioned with recent revolts were former French colonies.The recent military coup in Niger
highlights two regional trends.First, a growing group of military officers champion developmental economic policies and politics against
the internal conflict against jihadists have led to heightened militarization and an increased anti-France sentiment.The second regional
trend is the increasing closeness with Russia
France.Sahel militaries generally show interest in partnerships with Russia, as these partnerships offer military cooperation without the
pressure for liberal legal reforms or human rights issues that come with Western alliances.Russia is often seen as a partner without the
historical burden associated with former colonial powers.The military coup in Niger results from local and regional dynamics and a power
struggle between France and Russia for influence in Africa.Given the ongoing political and conflict situations in neighboring countries,
article in Gazeta do Povo
