The Biden administration officially declared the Niger military takeover as a coup d'etat. The US Department of State announced this on Tuesday, October 10.
Ever since junta leaders imprisoned President Mohamed Bazoum, the situation in the African nation has been considered a coup. Now, here's why the US government officially declared and what it means for Niger residents.
What Biden Admin Niger Coup Declaration Means to African Country?
According to CNN Politics' latest report, the coup d'etat declaration made by the US government is essential since the United States has exhausted all available avenues to preserve constitutional order in the West African country.
A senior Biden administration official explained this. The US government's decision to officially declare a coup in Niger will suspend military aid and foreign assistance to the country.
"That assistance is now also suspended pursuant to section 7008 of the Department of State's annual appropriations act," said US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.
He added that the US government also halted all assistance the Millennium Challenge Corporation provided to Niger. These include preparatory work on its $302 million Niger Regional Transportation Compact.
Aside from this, MCC's ann new activity on its 2018 Compact has been suspended as well.
Will the US Still Assist Niger?
Matthew Miller clarified that despite an official coup declaration, the US government will maintain food, health, and life-saving humanitarian assistance to Niger residents.
"The United States also intends to continue to work with regional governments, including in Niger, to advance shared interests in West Africa," he added.
The US Department of State is still open-minded about the possibility of military aid and other assistance resumptions. However, Miller said that if ever these aids return, an action from the National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland will be required.
He added that this will usher democratic governance in a credible and quick timeframe. The Biden admin official said the US government still stands with the Niger residents in their aspirations for prosperity, stability, and democracy.
The State Department spokesperson stated that the US has supported the Economic Community of West African States' efforts to help Niger return to democratic rule.
This is why they are still calling out junta leaders to release Mohamed Bazoum and his family members and other Nigeriens who are still detained.
