Thousands Rally Behind Niger Junta Chief After Thwarted Mutiny
Thousands Rally Behind Niger Junta Chief After Thwarted Mutiny
By Our International Correspondent
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NIAMEY – Thousands of people took to the streets of Niger's capital, Niamey, on Wednesday to express support for junta leader General Abdourahamane Tchiani, following a failed military mutiny over the weekend that has exposed deepening cracks within the military government.
The demonstration came days after some soldiers launched attacks around strategic sites, including the international airport and areas near the presidential palace. The mutiny was eventually put down by forces loyal to the military government, with assistance from Russia's African Corps.
The fighting reportedly lasted for about 24 hours, leaving dozens of soldiers arrested or killed. Although authorities have not disclosed exact figures or charges against those detained, sources suggest the mutiny was driven by growing frustrations among soldiers over worsening jihadist violence and poor conditions on the front lines.
Tchiani has led Niger since the July 2023 military coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The latest unrest represents one of the most serious internal challenges to his government since seizing power.
The demonstration in Niamey has been viewed as a show of public support for the military government amid continuing security challenges and its growing military partnership with Russia.
Niger has faced escalating jihadist attacks since the coup, with groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State expanding their operations across the Sahel region.

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