The Niger National Conference has concluded its deliberations, recommending a five-year, renewable transition period, to be governed by a “Refoundation Charter.”
Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, head of the commission organizing the national consultations, presented the conference’s conclusions on Thursday, emphasizing the recommended duration of the transition.
“All the subcommittees studied the issue, and the participants overwhelmingly recommended a minimum duration of five years, renewable,” Djingarey stated. He explained that this timeframe could be adjusted based on the evolving political and security landscape, the specific goals of the refoundation process, and the agenda of the Confederation of Sahel States. Significantly, he added that leaders of the refoundation bodies would be eligible to stand in future elections.
Djingarey emphasized that this “sovereign choice” by delegates reflects the need for a substantial period to ensure a solid refoundation, establishing the foundations for true independence and full sovereignty across all sectors – economic, political, social, and cultural.
The conference’s work was structured around five core themes: Peace, Security, and National Reconciliation; Political and Institutional Refoundation; Economy and Sustainable Development; Geopolitics and the International Environment; and Justice and Human Rights.
In a symbolic shift, the conference recommended adopting the term “Refoundation Charter” in place of “Transition Charter.” Djingarey noted that the preliminary draft of the charter will soon be submitted to the highest authorities. This foundational document will define the governing bodies, values, principles, and missions that will guide this historic period for Niger.
These national consultations are a key part of Niger’s reconstruction process following the July 2023 political change. They aim to address the significant security and political challenges facing the nation.
AC/Sf/fss/abj/APA