NIGER: Junta appoints sole ‘Marabout delegate’ to national convention
The military junta in Niger has appointed a sole delegate to represent the Marabout community in the upcoming national convention, scheduled to begin later this week. According to a report by the French broadcaster Radio France Internationale (RFI) Hausa Service, the seat is part of a broader allocation for various religious groups to participate in […]
The military junta in Niger has appointed a sole delegate to represent the Marabout community in the upcoming national convention, scheduled to begin later this week.
According to a report by the French broadcaster Radio France Internationale (RFI) Hausa Service, the seat is part of a broader allocation for various religious groups to participate in the conference, which aims to shape the country’s political future.
In addition to the Marabout delegate, the military junta has reserved 16 seats for Muslim representatives and three for Christian delegates.
Islam is the dominant religion in Niger, with approximately 99% of the population adhering to the faith, while Christians make up a small minority of 0.24%, divided between Catholics, Protestants, and other Christian denominations, according to recently available data.
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However, despite their small numbers, traditionalists and animists, who represent less than 1% of the population, have also been included in the national dialogue.
The convention marks a significant step in the military junta’s efforts to restore democratic governance following the ouster of civilian President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.
Niger’s Interior Ministry announced the details of the convention over the weekend via Radio-Télévision du Niger (RTN), the country’s state media, stating that it will take place from February 15 to 19 in the capital, Niamey.
The gathering is expected to focus on determining the length of the transition period that commenced with the 2023 military coup.
The convention will bring together representatives from various sectors, including political, religious, and civil society groups, to discuss the future trajectory of the nation.