Africa-Press. The government of Niger has accused French media outlets of broadcasting content that threatens “institutional stability,” announcing the suspension of activities of about 10 media organizations affiliated with France, the country’s former colonial power, citing threats to public order.
In a statement read on official television on Friday, it was noted that the suspended media outlets had repeatedly broadcasted “content that could seriously jeopardize public order, national unity, social cohesion, and the stability of state institutions.”
The list of suspended organizations includes France 24, Radio France Internationale, France Afrique Media, LSI Africa, Agence France-Presse, TV5 Monde, TF1 Info, Jeune Afrique, and Mediapart.
The statement added that the suspension took effect “immediately” and includes “satellite packages, cable networks, digital platforms, websites, and mobile applications.”
Radio France Internationale and France 24 had previously faced suspension shortly after the military coup that occurred in Niger in July 2023, which brought General Abdourahamane Tiani to power.
In December 2024, authorities also suspended the operations of the BBC.
Additionally, Burkina Faso, a close ally of both Niger and Mali within the Sahel alliance, also banned the broadcasting of TV5 Monde last Tuesday.
This decision by Niger comes just days before a major summit between France and African countries in Kenya.
Some former French colonies in Africa are experiencing a rise in anti-France sentiments, as the continent once again becomes a battleground for renewed diplomatic competition among international powers.
