The Nigerien rebel group denies reports of their leader, Mahmoud Salah’s, release from Haftar’s custody in Libya. Controversial interactions between France and Haftar emphasize the volatile dynamics post-Niger’s military coup. Strengthened ties between Niger and Haftar are represented by high-level visits and security agreements.
The Coordination of Free Forces in Niger, a rebel faction, has publicly denied claims regarding the release of Mahmoud Salah, the leader of the National Liberation Front. Salah, who was detained on February 23 in southern Libya’s Al-Gatroon area, continues to be held in custody by forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar in Benghazi, as reported by the Senegalese outlet Sud Quotidien.
Prior to this denial, the Italian news agency Nova had reported from anonymous Libyan sources that Salah had been released by Haftar. These claims were reportedly influenced by a request from French President Emmanuel Macron during a February 26 meeting at the Élysée Palace, where he urged Haftar not to transfer Salah to the military council in Niamey, which had gained international disapproval following its role in the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023.
The ties between Niger’s military leadership and Haftar have strengthened recently, highlighted by the visit of Nigerien Interior Minister Mohamed Boubacar Toumba to Benghazi last August, which led to the reactivation of their security agreements. Additionally, Haftar dispatched his son, Saddam, as a special envoy to Niger’s transitional president General Abdourahmane Tchiani in September, further consolidating their relationship. Conversely, Iraq’s Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant General Mohamed Al-Haddad, also visited Niamey to enhance collaborative efforts against cross-border armed groups.
In summary, the Coordination of Free Forces in Niger has refuted allegations surrounding the release of their leader, Mahmoud Salah, highlighting that he remains in custody. The dynamics between Niger’s military authorities and Khalifa Haftar are evolving, evidenced through mutual visits and strengthening bilateral security agreements following the recent regime change in Niger. This situation underscores the complexities of regional relations within North Africa.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
