Niger's civil society opposes deployment of French troops after departure from Mali

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG (AA) - A coalition of 15 civil society organizations in Niger has expressed disappointment against the deployment of French troops in their country.

According to local publication, La Nouvelle Tribune, the civil society organizations operating under the umbrella of M62 have called protests demanding the immediate departure of the French troops.

Reports also claim authorities in Niger on Wednesday banned protests planned by the civil society groups for the day.

On Tuesday, French authorities announced they had withdrawn their last troops from Mali ending a nine-year operation in the West African country that was its hub to tackle militants in the Sahel region.

French officials said in July that Niger would now become their new base in the Sahel with their troops operating in the border regions along Niger and Burkina Faso.

This is not the first time that demonstrations have taken place against the French armed forces in Niger. A few months ago, three Nigeriens lost their lives in demonstrations against the French army, according to La Nouvelle Tribune.

Anadolu Agency could not reach officials in Niger for a comment despite repeated attempts.