Photo : Mahamadou Hamidou, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Mahamadou Hamidou, Reuters
IN BRIEF
By Anu Maria Joseph
Niger: France closes its embassy
On 22 December, France closed its embassy in Niger over the escalating tensions between the countries. The embassy stated that it is "no longer able to function normally or fulfil its missions" due to the restrictions imposed by the military government. The development comes after French troops left the country after the coup and France’s disapproval of the new military government. (“France closes Niger embassy after row with military junta,” BBC, 22 December 2023)
Sudan: SAF leader blames army’s “negligence” in Wad Madani
On 22 December, Sudanese military leader, al Burhan blamed the army for its “negligence” after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured the city of Wad Madani. The army has been criticised for leaving the city without a proper defence. More than 300,000 people have left the city amid the fighting. Burhan stated: "We will hold every negligent commander accountable. Those who were responsible for this withdrawal will also be held accountable without leniency.” (“Sudan war: General Burhan blames fall of Wad Madani on 'negligence',” BBC, 22 December 2023)