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African Union demands Nigerien military restore constitutional authority – agency

The African Union Peace and Security Council demanded that the troops "immediately and unconditionally return to their barracks"

MOSCOW, July 29. /TASS/. The African Union has demanded that Niger’s military restore constitutional authority, Agence France-Presse reported.

The Peace and Security Council of the African Union demanded in a communique that the military personnel "immediately and unconditionally return to their barracks and restore constitutional authority, within a maximum period of fifteen days."

The council condemned the July 26 military coup, "which resulted in the ousting of a democratically elected president." The council also warned that it "will take necessary action, including punitive measures against the perpetrators."

On the evening of July 26, rebels in Niger announced the dismissal of President Mohamed Bazoum, the closure of national borders, the introduction of a curfew, the suspension of the constitution, and the prohibition of political parties. General Abdourahmane Tchiani became head of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, which assumed all powers of government. During the coup, Tchiani headed the presidential guard, whose officers seized President Bazoum. The National Council includes a range of Nigerien top officers, namely former Chief of Staff General Salif Modi who was dismissed this April.

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According to preliminary information, the incident occurred at about 8 p.m. (local time)

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Putin, Turkish president hold phone talks — Kremlin

The leaders also discussed some international issues

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Zelensky begs ‘for his country to be flattened’ — US journalist

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Voter turnout in the election stood at 52.41%

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Turkey to investigate causes of Russian Superjet emergency at Antalya airport

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Kremlin sees US-led West ready to do anything to suppress Russia

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US did not contact Russia after use of Oreshnik missile — Deputy Foreign Minister

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Russian national Nikita Zhuravel sentenced to 14 years in prison for high treason

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Retreating Ukrainian troops leave dozens of bodies behind in Chasov Yar

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