General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader behind the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum and the subsequent seizure of power through a coup, has unveiled a plan to reinstate democratic governance in Niger over the course of three years.

In a televised address on Saturday evening, General Tchiani conveyed the commitment of both the junta and the populace of Niger to maintain a stance of non-confrontation and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogues.

During the speech, he revealed that the particulars of the transition strategy will be formulated within the next 30 days, facilitated through a national dialogue orchestrated by the junta. Notably, General Tchiani underscored that the duration of the transition itself will not exceed three years.

The impending dialogue is poised to delineate the "national priorities" of Niger and establish foundational "values essential for guiding the reconstruction" of the West African nation.

The military junta, which assumed control in late July, precipitated the removal of President Bazoum, who had originally ascended to power through democratic channels in 2021, marking a comparatively peaceful transfer of authority. This shift in leadership was accompanied by the temporary suspension of national institutions.

General Tchiani's proposed roadmap towards democratic governance reflects the junta's endeavor to steer Niger back towards stable and participatory governance after the recent upheaval. (ILKHA)