The conversation will specify “national priorities” and “ask for fundamental ideals to lead the restoration” of the West African nation.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, has suggested that democracy return within three years.
In a coup on July 26, Tchiani and others overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum and took control of the government.
According to CNN, General Tchiani stated in a televised address on Saturday night that neither the junta nor the Niger people “want for conflict and remain open to negotiation.”
The transition itself “should continue no longer than three years,” he added, adding that the transition’s guiding principles would be determined upon during the next 30 days as part of a nationwide conversation organized by the junta.
The discussion would outline “national priorities” and “ask for fundamental ideals to lead the rebuilding” of the West African nation, he claimed.
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders have reacted to the coup by imposing sanctions and sending a threat to the junta that it must disband or face a potential military intervention by a standby force in the area.
On Saturday, Tchiani met with a delegation of ECOWAS officials in Niamey’s capital and paid a visit to Bazoum.
The junta’s goal, according to Tchiani, was “not to seize power,” he stated in his televised speech.
He continued, “I again reiterate our willingness to participate in any debate, provided that it takes into consideration the orientations wanted by the proud and resilient people of Niger.
But he issued a warning that the junta would defend itself if attacked.
“If an attack were launched against us, it would not be the simple undertaking some people seem to believe.”
In the past, the junta asserted that it had amassed proof to bring charges against Bazoum for “high treason.”
The Sahel area of Africa, which includes Mali and Burkina Faso, has had multiple attempts to seize political control in recent years.
