The World Bank has announced the suspension of its operations in Niger following the military coup that took place in the country last week, resulting in the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum.
In a statement today, the World Bank expressed concern over efforts to overthrow the democratically elected government in Niger, declaring a halt to all its funding operations there until further notice, with the exception of its partnerships with the private sector. The bank noted that these operations with the private sector will continue with caution.
Last Friday, General Abdoulkader Chiani, the head of the presidential guard in Niger, declared himself as the country’s ruler after the coup against elected President Mohamed Bazoum. Chiani justified this move by citing deteriorating security situation in his country, which faces violence instigated by armed groups.
The military coup in Niger has sparked angry international reactions, with warnings about its potential implications for the security of the Sahel region and humanitarian concerns. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member countries imposed economic sanctions and travel restrictions on the new military leaders in Niger, threatening the use of force if President Mohamed Bazoum is not reinstated within a week.
France and the European Union have also suspended all financial aid to Niger.
Source: Qatar News Agency