Niger coup leaders unveil 21 ministers in new government

The military junta that wrested control of Niger in a July coup has introduced a new government lineup, consisting of a 21-man ministerial team. The architects of the coup have now taken strides to establish their governance structure.

In a televised announcement on Thursday, Mahamane Roufai Laouali, designated as the “secretary-general of the government,” revealed the names of the appointed ministers. The communication, however, refrained from elaborating on additional forthcoming actions or initiatives.

Of significant note is that three of the key generals who spearheaded the ousting of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 have been inducted into the newly formed government. They have assumed roles as ministers of defense, interior, and sports, effectively carving their positions in the governance landscape. This move signals a significant transformation, as the new government is roughly half the size of its predecessor.

The decision-making process within the newly established regime has provoked regional concern. Heads of state within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are set to convene in Nigeria for a summit aimed at devising a strategic plan of action for Niger. This move becomes even more vital as the coup leaders continue to reject calls for their relinquishment of power.

Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, the freshly appointed Prime Minister, has been entrusted with spearheading the 21-member government.