Niger’s Civil Society Coalition, M62, Urges France to Withdraw Troops
M62, a prominent civil society group in Niger, has vocally called for the immediate withdrawal of French troops from the nation. Led by Abdoulaye Seydou, M62 passionately opposes the French military presence in Niger, pledging unwavering determination until the French forces exit. Approximately 1,500 French soldiers have been stationed in Niger since Paris designated the country as the core of its Sahel operation last year.
Seydou asserted, “As soon as the specified deadline expires, we will not permit the presence of French forces on our soil, aligning with the stance of the CNSP. Communities from all neighboring villages will converge on the capital to join our cause. French troops will be compelled to leave Niamey. Despite their claims of staying in Niger, departure is inevitable.”
Notably, Niamey’s ruling military, on August 3, publicly renounced a series of military agreements with France, several of which included a one-month notice period. Recent months have witnessed a growing wave of anti-French sentiment in France’s former West African colonies, including Niger.
