Niger anger over Ecowas 'snub'

Niamey, 23 Dec-(ANA)-Niger's government has expressed its anger over a decision by the regional body Ecowas that it no longer recognises the country's president.

Ecowas said that as it did not condone the referendum that enabled Mamadou Tandja to stay in power, his term had therefore expired on Tuesday.

But the communications minister said no other countries should try to impose their will on the people of Niger.

The West African trade grouping has already suspended Niger.

However, Ecowas said it would continue to mediate in negotiations which began this week between Niger's government and opposition in an attempt to resolve the political deadlock. (ANA)

FA/ANA/23 December 2009---