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A commission in Niger has suggested a minimum transition period of five years toward a return to democratic governance after national discussions, according to officials.
Following a coup in 2023 when the military took over and removed President Mohamed Bazoum from power, Niger’s military had initially proposed a three-year timeframe for transitioning back to civilian governance.
However, the main regional organisation of West Africa, ECOWAS, rejected this proposal. After political tensions, Niger and its neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso, opted to exit the bloc and establish the Alliance of Sahel States.
Abdoulaye Seydou, one of the Vice Presidents of the commission, stated on state television that “the transition duration is set at 60 months, which may change based on the security situation” and other considerations.
The commission also recommended promoting Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tchiani, formerly the head of Niger’s presidential guard before the coup, to the position of army general.
Commission President Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey reiterated the five-year timeline and said that political parties would be disbanded, with a new charter allowing for between two and five political parties. He added that military personnel would be able to participate in future elections.
The commission consulted with over 700 delegates, including legal professionals, architects, and educators. Political parties did not take part in the discussions.
The report from the commission will be submitted to the military leaders of the country, who will make the final determination on the transition timeline.
Similar to the military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso, the Niger junta has expelled French and other European forces and sought support from Russia to counter militant threats.
