Niger Junta Supporters Rally as Call for Volunteers Overwhelms Organizers

Summary:

• Thousands of young men gather outside a stadium in Cabernoniamme to support the military junta and volunteer for defense.
• Organizers overwhelmed as volunteers exceed expectations, causing a halt in recruitment.
• Mixed sentiments among volunteers, with some expressing frustration and readiness for forceful change.
• Iqoas delegation visits Niame, engaging with coup leaders, potentially opening doors for negotiation.

Thousands of mostly young men gathered outside a stadium in Niger's Cabernoniamme to show support for the military junta and volunteer for non-military roles in defense against potential intervention. Organizers were overwhelmed by the turnout, leading to a halt in the recruitment drive.

Massive Show of Support

Thousands of Nigeriens, primarily young men, converged outside a stadium in Cabernoniamme on Saturday, demonstrating their backing for the military junta that recently assumed control of the nation. The junta's rise to power has sparked both controversy and devotion, as citizens grapple with their country's political future.

Volunteering for Defense

In response to a call for civilian volunteers to aid in defending against potential intervention by West African regional powers, numerous individuals flocked to the recruitment drive. The junta's intention was not to enlist soldiers but to compile a roster of civilians willing to contribute their expertise in the event of external threats.

Overwhelming Turnout

The response from volunteers surpassed expectations to the point where organizers found themselves inundated. The sheer number of attendees compelled organizers to suspend the registration process, highlighting the fervent willingness of citizens to engage in safeguarding their nation.

Yearning for Improvement

Amid the crowd, sentiments varied. Some participants expressed frustration with the current state of affairs, yearning for a better life within their country. One prospective volunteer articulated the sentiment that passive patience has proved ineffective, suggesting that a more forceful approach is necessary for tangible change.

Delegation from Iqoas

The recruitment event coincided with a visit from an Iqoas delegation to Niame, the capital. During their stay, the delegation held discussions with both ousted President Mohammed Bazoum and junta leader General Abdurrahman Chiani. The junta's willingness to engage with the delegation signifies a potential openness to negotiation, as Iqoas reiterated its willingness to use force if democratic restoration efforts remain unheeded.

As the junta balances between citizen support and international pressure, the nation watches closely to see how these developments will shape Niger's path ahead.