Since the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 by his faction, General Abdourahmane Tchiani's regime has consistently rejected various peace initiatives. However, Tchiani's stance appears to have evolved, as he recently engaged in a meeting with Islamic scholars from Nigeria, during which he expressed a newfound openness to diplomatic discussions and peaceful resolutions.

The gathering, which took place in Niger's capital, Niamey, involved a delegation of Islamic scholars led by Sheik Bala Lau, Chairman of Jam’atul Izalatu Bida Waikamatu Sunnah. Following the meeting, Sheik Lau released a statement outlining the discussions held with the junta. The conversations encompassed multiple topics, including the ECOWAS demand for the reinstatement of President Bazoum.

According to Sheik Lau, during the meeting, the question of dialogue was addressed, and Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, the Prime Minister of Niger appointed by the junta, responded affirmatively. He conveyed Tchiani's sentiment, emphasizing that the junta leader was indeed open to dialogue, dispelling any notion to the contrary.

Moreover, Sheik Lau conveyed his optimism about the potential for discussions with ECOWAS in the near future. He revealed that the junta had given the green light for dialogue and that the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, had been informed of this development. This proactive

approach aims to encourage dialogue as the means to resolve the political deadlock in Niger.

Sheik Lau's statement also conveyed that he had conveyed his delegation's stance on a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis to General Tchiani. In response, General Tchiani expressed that their doors were open to exploring diplomacy and pursuing peaceful avenues to address the matter. This marks a significant shift from the junta's previous reluctance to engage in talks, indicating a potential shift towards finding a peaceful solution to the situation.