General Tiani reshuffles Niger cabinet, appoints loyalists after failed coup attempt

The head of Niger’s military junta, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has reorganized his government by dismissing the ministers responsible for agriculture, refoundation, energy and communication and installing new figures loyal to the regime. This follows an attempted coup in which young special-forces officers attacked the presidential palace, tried to capture the national television station and seized a key air-base, prompting parts of the army to appear to side with the rebels.

The mutiny was ultimately repelled, reportedly with decisive assistance from 200-300 Russian soldiers of the Africa Corps stationed in Niger. An anonymous opposition source said the incoming ministers, notably Abdourahamane Oumarou, are long-time allies of the junta, and that the reshuffle is intended to solidify Tiani’s rule.