the Truth Behind Niger Coup : The Impact of French Colonialism and Neocolonial Practice
#war #niger
In a continuing series of events unfolding in the Sahel region, Niger has become the latest country to experience a coup, marking the third such incident in just three years following similar occurrences in Mali and Burkina Faso. General Abdourahamane Tchiani led the military takeover on July 26th, ousting the pro-Western president Mohamed Bazoum, who had been elected in 2021 amidst allegations of fraud and protests.
Each of these coups has been justified by concerns about rising terrorism and chronic socio-economic underdevelopment. Despite possessing abundant natural resources like oil, gold, and uranium, the Sahel region remains financially impoverished. Niger is a prime example, as it's a significant uranium exporter but ranks low on the Human Development Index.
The common thread in these countries' new leadership narratives is their criticism of France. As former French colonies, they point to France's continued influence over their affairs, replacing direct colonial control with subtler forms of neocolonialism, particularly through currency mechanisms.
Historically, European powers imposed monetary subservience on their colonies, and France is notable for maintaining control over its former colonies through the CFA franc. This currency system, despite its Africanization, effectively allows France to manage economic, monetary, financial, and political ties in a way that serves its interests, limiting the economic sovereignty of these nations.
Niger, despite being a major uranium supplier to France and other countries, struggles with low access to modern electricity and high poverty rates. France maintains a significant share of the company operating Niger's uranium industry, highlighting the structural inequality embedded in the CFA system.
The anti-French sentiment is exemplified by recent military coups targeting France's influence. Mali and Burkina Faso expelled French troops and cut ties, while Niger revoked military cooperation agreements, suspended uranium exports to France, and witnessed public protests against French exploitation.
This trend represents a second phase of national liberation movements, focusing on achieving economic sovereignty and independence. However, these actions have prompted sanctions, reflecting the delicate power dynamics in the region.
The situation also has implications for larger geopolitical forces, with the West African bloc considering intervention to reinstate elected governments. The prospect of a proxy war involving Russia, China, and Western countries looms, complicating the region's stability.
In conclusion, the recent coups and the anti-French sentiment in the Sahel region stem from historical grievances against neocolonial practices, notably the CFA franc system that perpetuates economic inequality. These events also expose the geopolitical tensions between global powers vying for influence and control over the region's resources
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