Niger Votes in Search of First Democratic Transition
Niger heads to the polls on Sunday (today) in an election that is expected to pave way for the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country battling insecurity.
Reports say Mohamed Bazoum, former interior minister, the ruling party’s candidate is in pole position to replace President Mahamadou Issoufou, who has completed two five-year terms leading the West African country, CGTN reports.
The 60 years old Bazoum in his campaign address, promised to continue with Issoufou’s policies, while also vowing to cleanse the country of corruption.
Bazoum in a campaign video said, “If I am lucky enough to win this election, you will have chosen someone who is ready from day one.”
The election comes at a time when Niger is facing twin security crises. I...