Niger Commission Proposes 5-Year Transition to Civilian Rule

A commission in Niger has recommended a five-year transition period before handing over power to a civilian government, sparking reactions from stakeholders.

A commission in Niger, currently under military rule, has proposed a five-year transition period to return to civilian governance. After the military ousted Mohamed Bazoum from power in 2023, they initially recommended a three-year transition plan; however, this proposal was rejected by ECOWAS.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso exited the bloc following political disagreements.

The commission’s president announced that a new charter would be established to permit two to five political parties. He also mentioned that officials from the junta could participate in future elections.

The commission also decided to elevate Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani, the leader of the junta and former head of Niger’s presidential guard before the coup, to the rank of army general.

For its efforts, the commission sought advice from hundreds of delegates, including lawyers, architects, and teachers. Political parties were excluded from this process.

The military junta will decide on the transition timeline once they have reviewed the commission’s report.