Niger's new military leaders have refused to step down despite external pressure and the threat of foreign military intervention. The leaders claim they ousted the president to fight insurgents and combat corruption. Supporters of the coup gathered for a rally in the capital, Niamey, while neighbouring countries Mali and Burkina-Faso have promised military support. However, some citizens fear the consequences of the coup, and economic sanctions are making life harder for people in Niger. The regional bloc ECOWAS, which agreed to military action, has not yet announced its next steps or the deadline for the Coup Leaders to Restore Democracy.
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