The Nigerien government has officially scheduled a National Conference from February 15 to 19, 2025, to draft a preliminary transition charter, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing political transition. This announcement was made through a letter from the Minister of the Interior to regional governors, department prefects, and commune administrators across the country.
Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP) and the current Head of State, has appointed a commission to oversee the conference. The commission consists of approximately 20 individuals, including former ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from civil society. Their primary task is to analyze reports from regional conferences that have already been held and to propose a draft transition charter.
The transition charter will be pivotal in shaping the country’s future. It will define the duration of the political transition, outline the governance structures that will be put in place, and establish procedures for selecting officials who will take on leadership roles. Furthermore, the charter will clarify the responsibilities of these officials during the transition period.
Since the military coup on July 26, 2023, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger has been under military rule. General Tiani, who led the coup, pledged in August 2023 that the transition would not extend beyond three years. This National Conference represents a critical step toward fulfilling that promise and formalizing the path forward for the country’s return to civilian rule.
With tensions running high and international attention focused on Niger, the outcome of the National Conference could have far-reaching implications for the political stability of the country and the broader region. The political transition process is expected to be closely monitored by both local and international stakeholders as it unfolds over the coming months.
