After the coup d’état in Niger, the German government is pushing for a peaceful solution to the crisis in the West African country. Shortly before a multi-day trip to the Sahel region, Development Minister Svenja Schulze (SPD) told the Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung (Monday edition) that “the protest against the putsch in Niger must not mean declaring war”.
There are numerous ways to “approach differently, for example that it will soon be proper elections or that the legitimate President Bazoum will no longer be held and will not be harmed”.
In the Sahel state, the military overthrew the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum at the end of July and took power. The West African Union of States Ecowas initially called on the military to reinstate the president and threatened military intervention as a “last option”. However, an ultimatum set by Ecowas passed without consequences.
Bazoum continues to be held captive. Schulze emphasized that it was “a rather unusual putsch”. “For example, no one has died yet. This makes it easier to look for diplomatic solutions, which are definitely possible,” said the minister.
The SPD politician pointed to the significant effects of the sanctions against Niger, for example in the areas of food and electricity. “That’s why I’m counting on those who staged the coup also having an interest in a peaceful agreement,” said Schulze. Starting this Monday, the minister will be visiting the region for several days of political talks. (AFP)
