The fate of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, detained since the July 26 coup, continues to worry the international community. The conditions of detention of the president, sequestered in his residence with his family, have deteriorated, giving rise to serious concerns.
The European Union and the African Union have expressed their deep concern at this situation. Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, deplored the deprivation of food, electricity and healthcare to which Mohamed Bazoum and his family would be victims. He called for their immediate and unconditional release.
The African Union has also raised serious concerns and called the treatment meted out to an elected head of state unconscionable. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki, called for the immediate release of Mohamed Bazoum and called on the international community to act to save his life.
The ruling junta has repeatedly threatened to execute the Nigerien president if an armed intervention by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is launched. This threat raises fears for the safety and well-being of Mohamed Bazoum and his family.
The situation has become critical, with increased security around the presidential residence. Around 70 guards now guard the president’s home. Mohamed Bazoum and his family are deprived of electricity, food and medical care. The international community considers this detention as a hostage-taking and a use of the president as a human shield.
Calls for the release of Mohamed Bazoum are increasing and the pressure on the junta is increasing. It is essential to guarantee the safety, health and well-being of Niger’s president, democratically elected by the people. Respect for human rights and the rule of law is essential to ensure a peaceful and stable political transition in Niger.
It is urgent that the international community intensify its efforts to resolve this crisis and restore constitutional order in Niger. The immediate release of Mohamed Bazoum and respect for his fundamental rights must be the top priority