I’ve been waiting for the United States and Canadian governments to weigh in on the Nigerien political crisis.  Today France released a less than pointed statement, accusing Nigerien government policies of “being outside the constitution”, while the EU was a little firmer, mentioning the cash it provides Niamey.  Although members have expressed concern over Tandja’s coup, the bi-yearly meeting this Wednesday looks like it will be quiet, in part because its a closed door meeting, and in part because the Libyan government has denied visas and/or failed to find any accommodation for NGO representatives, members of African civil society groups, or reporters.  ECOWAS / CEDEAO seem the best bet, in part because they hardly need another government to slide into a rather seedy dictatorship.  Nigeria’s ruling class appears to have taken a distinct interest in seeing the back of Tandja (which may be enough to doom him).

So I was pleased when I saw that the word “Niger” came up in today’s United States State Department press briefing. “Mr. Kelly” is Ian Kelly, the State Department Spokesman.  Apparently he’s been a bit preoccupied of late.

QUESTION: Do you have anything on the political situation in Niger?

MR. KELLY: I don’t think so. No, I don’t. What’s going on in —
QUESTION: There’s a political crisis. The president has dissolved the constitutional court and he is trying to stay in power —
MR. KELLY: Yeah.
QUESTION: — instead of getting reelected in September.
MR. KELLY: Well, that doesn’t sound good.
QUESTION: No.
MR. KELLY: We’ll get you more information.
QUESTION: Thank you.
MR. KELLY: Okay. Thanks.

Okay. Thanks.

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