On August 4, 2023, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Government Spokesperson held a press conference in Cotonou. The main topic of this media appearance was, of course, the crisis in Niger. Analyzing the statements made by the head of diplomacy, it is evident that Benin is officially and firmly opposed to the coup d’etat in Niger and is ready to contribute through all means to the restoration of constitutional order.
Zero tolerance for the coup plotters in Niger. Benin’s position on the matter is unequivocal. There is no question of allowing men in uniform to become enamored with power to the point of challenging democratic principles and plunging countries into instability.
We believe that power should be transferred through the ballot box and not at the end of a bayonet. We believe that democratically elected regimes are better for improving the living conditions of the populations.
Shegun Bakari stated, “If the military were to decide who the President of the Republic should be, then why do we even organize elections? The military is part of the people.”
The Minister emphasized that Benin fully subscribes to the position of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) in the Nigerien crisis. The country aligns itself and will implement all measures taken by the organization. According to the Government Spokesperson, there is no other option. Benin, being a member of ECOWAS and having participated in the extraordinary summit, must respect the decisions taken.
What about the position of ECOWAS?
“The position of ECOWAS is very clear. President Bazoum is the democratically elected President of Niger. He is the only one we recognize. All that ECOWAS demands is the reinstatement of Mohamed Bazoum to his function,” reiterated Shegun Bakari.
