ECOWAS sets "D-Day" for potential military intervention in Niger

The organization is still open to engaging in dialogue with the coup leaders, but it has warned that it will not engage in "prolonged discussions."

The announcement comes after two days of discussions among West African military leaders in Accra, Ghana.

ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Abdel-Fatau Musah told reporters that the nations involved had reached an agreement on the necessary steps for the intervention and were willing to provide support to the required forces.

Musah stressed that there was still room for diplomatic efforts, saying, "We are considering all options, and we are in the process of preparing a mediation mission to the country." However, he also warned that ECOWAS members would not wait indefinitely for the coup leaders to restore democracy.

The coup in Niger, which took place on July 26, overthrew democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. Bazoum, who had marked the first peaceful transfer of power since Niger's independence, has been in house arrest and faces accusations of treason by the junta that executed the coup.

The coup has been condemned by ECOWAS and other international organizations. The United Nations Security Council has called for the immediate release of Bazoum and the restoration of constitutional order.

The potential military intervention by ECOWAS is a significant escalation in the crisis in Niger. It remains to be seen whether the coup leaders will heed the warnings of ECOWAS and restore democracy to the country. (ILKHA)