The capital of Niger, Niamey, witnessed protests on Saturday by supporters of the military council in front of the French military base, demanding the withdrawal of all French forces from the country.
Protesters in front of the French base in Niamey also called on Paris to withdraw its diplomats from the country.
These demonstrations come on the eve of the deadline set by the ruling military council for the departure of the French ambassador to Niger.
Authorities in Niger have deployed additional police and military forces to prevent protesters from storming the French base, which houses 1,500 French soldiers. The military council in Niger condemned the statements made by French President Emmanuel Macron, considering them blatant interference in the country’s affairs.
This comes after Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed his support for detained President Mohamed Bazoum and insisted on keeping the Paris ambassador in Niamey.