3:05pm UK, Friday February 19, 2010

Katie Cassidy, Sky News Online

Soldiers who have seized power in Niger say they want the country to be “an example of democracy and good governance” amid international criticism of their actions.

Colonel Goukoye Abdul Karimou appeared on TV, backed by other coup leaders

Reports said the nation’s ousted president, Mamadou Tandja, was “doing well” following Thursday’s coup, but his whereabouts were still unknown.

Armed military men stormed the presidential palace in Niamey, kidnapping 71-year-old Mr Tandja.

The junta – calling itself the Supreme Council for the Restoration of Democracy – has appeared on state-run TV and announced their leader was squadron chief Salou Djibo.

It comes as the African Union called for a “quick return to constitutional order”, while former colonial ruler France said it “condemns any seizure of power by non-constitutional methods”.

It is believed the coup soldiers were deeply unhappy with a change to the constitution, which allowed Mr Tandja to remain in power.

A spokesman for the US state department even suggested the president – who has ruled Niger for more than 10 years – brought on his own downfall.

“President Tandja has been trying to extend his mandate in office,” spokesman Philip Crowley said.

“Obviously, that may well have been an act on his behalf that precipitated this act.”

In a statement, the coup leaders told Niger’s 15 million people they had suspended the constitution and dissolved the government.

The junta gave no indication of how long it intended to hold power, but called on the population to support its actions.

“The defence and security forces have decided to take our responsibilities in ending the tense political situation,” Major Djibo said in the statement.

While two tanks and several armed trucks were in position around the presidential palace, the streets of the capital appeared calm following the announcement.