Admin I Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023
WASHINGTON – The United States says it has suspended all assistance to the government of Niger, following the military coup which took over power from Mohamed Bazoum.
The U.S equally called for his release, his family and those detained with him as a result of the coup.
In a statement issued by Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson, the US said pursuant to section 7008 of the Department of State’s annual appropriations act, the United States is suspending most U.S. assistance to the government of Niger.
“On August 5, the United States temporarily paused certain foreign assistance programs to the government of Niger, totaling nearly $200 million. That assistance is now also suspended pursuant to section 7008 of the Department of State’s annual appropriations act.
“We also note the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s suspension of all assistance to Niger, including all preparatory work on its $302 million Niger Regional Transportation Compact and all new activity on its 2018 Compact”, the statement added.
The U.S said it will continue to maintain its life-saving humanitarian, food, and health assistance to benefit the people of Niger and continue to work with regional governments, including in Niger, to advance shared interests in West Africa.
“We stand with the Nigerien people in their aspirations for democracy, prosperity, and stability. Since the coup, we have supported the Economic Community of West African States’ efforts to work with Niger to achieve a return to democratic rule”, the statement said, adding that any resumption of U.S. assistance will require action by the National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland to usher in democratic governance in a quick and credible timeframe.
“The United States reiterates its call for the release of Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and all those detained”.
