The recent military rulers in Niamey, who took control on July 26, have demanded the departure of the French ambassador within 48 hours, as confirmed by Niger’s foreign affairs minister in a statement reported by AFP.
The decision to expel Sylvain Itte comes after the French ambassador declined an invitation to meet with the minister and due to perceived actions by the French government that are deemed contrary to Niger’s interests.
Tensions have escalated between the two countries since the Nigerien army ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The military leaders accuse France of seeking to intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum and criticize the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for being influenced by France.
Following the coup, ECOWAS imposed economic sanctions on Niger and threatened the use of armed force to restore constitutional order.
France maintains around 1,500 troops in Niger to combat jihadist groups that have destabilized the country and the Sahel region for an extended period.