West Africa: Politics and Government

(asked on 14th September 2023) - View Source

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to support democratic (1) government, and (2) processes, across West Africa following the recent military coups in Niger and Gabon; and what discussions they have had about this matter with the government of France.


Answered by
 Portrait
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
This question was answered on 28th September 2023

The UK condemns in the strongest possible terms attempts to undermine democracy, peace and stability in Niger. We stand firmly with the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in calling for the restoration of democracy in Niger.

On Gabon, the UK condemns the unconstitutional military takeover and calls for the restoration of civilian rule. We support efforts by the AU and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) to hold Gabon to account and welcome Gabon's partial suspension from the Commonwealth. We will work with the Commonwealth Secretary-General to uphold Commonwealth values and call for a restoration of civilian and democratic rule in Gabon.

We regularly discuss these issues with a range of regional and international partners, including France. The Foreign Secretary spoke to the French Foreign Minister about Niger in August. Officials have regular discussions with French counterparts in Paris, London and at post.

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