Niger Junta Revokes French Ambassador's Diplomatic Immunity
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The junta which assumed power in Niger last month has declared that the French ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itte, no longer enjoys diplomatic immunity.
The junta has instructed the police to expel him, according to Sky News.
In response to actions taken by the French government that it deemed "contrary to the interests of Niger," the junta ordered the ambassador to depart the country within 48 hours.
However, the ambassador did not comply with this summons and declined to meet with junta representatives at the country’s foreign ministry.
In late July, a group of military rebels in Niger announced the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum and established the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (Conseil national pour la sauvegarde de la patrie, CNSP), led by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, to govern the nation.
As a consequence of these events, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) suspended Niger's membership in the organization and imposed stringent sanctions on the country. ECOWAS leaders demanded the release of Bazoum and cautioned about a potential military resolution if he was not freed.
On August 10, General Tchiani signed a decree forming a new interim government comprising 20 ministers, both military and civilian.
