Corruption in military procurement.
With the presidential election set to take place in December, the government is under fire over its lenient approach to corruption in military procurement -- at a time when Nigerien soldiers have been losing their lives in the struggle to combat jihadist armed groups. With 160 Nigerien soldiers killed in recent jihadist attacks, the theft of money that could have been used better to equip the armed forces is a hot issue, particularly as the alleged culprits have connections to the ruling PNDS Taraya party. This offers opponents a chance to mobilise public opinion against the government.
The exposure of corruption damages the ruling party’s claim of a track record of effective public sector management.
The government allows culprits to escape jail time if they repay stolen funds, which will alienate urban public opinion.
France and the United States will not publicly criticise the government, a key ally.
