Aissata, a 60-year-old former teacher who returned to Niger after spending most of her life in the United States, supports the military government and new President Abdourahamane Tchiani following a coup against Mohamed Bazoum. The population of Niger has rallied around the concept of “Labou Sani no”, an unwavering commitment to the nation. However, the country has faced economic hardships due to sanctions imposed by ECOWAS following the coup. Prices of staple foods have risen, electricity shortages have occurred, and economic deals have been delayed. The rift between Niger and France, its former colonial power, has also deepened, with France withdrawing its troops and closing its embassy in Niamey, and Niger revoking a major uranium deposit from a French company. The political division in the country is stark, with people being either pro-junta or pro-Bazoum, leading to strained relationships among family members. Bazoum, the deposed president, has been under house arrest for nearly a year and has now been stripped of his immunity, setting the stage for him to face charges of high treason. The decision has been condemned by his legal team and human rights organizations. The National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland has also frozen the accounts of numerous relatives and supporters of Bazoum. The future of Niger remains uncertain as the country grapples with political turmoil and economic challenges.
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