A year after Niger’s coup, split political loyalties test family ties
Al Jazeera
While many Nigeriens have welcomed the military rulers, others question their rhetoric and approach towards governance.
Niamey, Niger – “No talk of politics today,” Aissata* said to her teenage daughter on the way to her parents’ house for their traditional Sunday gathering in Niamey.
“We can’t talk about any of this with the others. I don’t want any tension at the table.”
The 60-year-old mother of four and former teacher returned to Niger with her family five years ago after spending most of her adult life in the United States. She and her husband decided to retire to their homeland when their youngest daughter left home for college.
Since the July 26, 2023 coup against Mohamed Bazoum – a democratically elected leader and close ally to the European Union who ruled for a mere two years before being forced out of office – Aissata has welcomed the military government and new President, Abdourahamane Tchiani.
“I think some people misjudge Tchiani for being part of the former establishment that he’s condemning today. But as the former head of the presidential guard, he isn’t responsible for the previous governments’ shortcomings,” she told Al Jazeera.
