Algeria “Postpones” Mediation in the Niger Conflict

Algeria announced on Monday that it is suspending its mediation efforts to resolve the crisis in Niger following the military takeover. The Algerian government has decided to delay the planned preparatory discussions until it receives the necessary clarifications regarding the implementation of Algerian mediation in Niger.

The Nigerien authorities had previously informed Algeria of their acceptance of mediation in the political, institutional, and constitutional crisis. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune instructed the head of diplomacy, Ahmed Attaf, to initiate preparatory discussions in Niamey. However, the discussions between the two countries’ chancelleries regarding the visit’s program and content were inconclusive.

Algeria expresses concern over the Nigerien authorities’ public statements, which raise doubts about their commitment to follow through on their acceptance of Algerian mediation. The Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, claimed to have learned about the mediation acceptance through social media and accused Algeria of manipulation.

In August, Algeria proposed political discussions lasting up to six months, involving all parties in Niger and led by a consensus-based civil authority, to restore constitutional order in the country. Niger has been under military rule for over two months since the coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum.