Former Niger President Mohamed Bazoum has been held in detention since a military coup removed him from power on July 26, 2023. Soldiers led by General Abdourahamane Tiani took control of the government and arrested Bazoum and his wife. They have been held at the presidential palace in the capital, Niamey, without access to family or lawyers. In 2024, the new authorities removed Bazoum’s presidential immunity to allow a trial for high treason, but a court hearing did not follow fair trial rules. A trial date has not been announced. In 2023, Bazoum asked a regional court to rule on his detention, and the court later said it was illegal and called for his release. The ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) court and UN experts have called for his release, but Niger’s government has ignored these demands. Bazoum’s lawyers say he has been cruelly treated. His case shows how the military junta is suppressing opposition and delaying the return to democracy in Niger, hurting the country’s future and reputation.
Pray for the immediate release of former Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and his wife, who were arbitrarily detained in the military coup in 2023. Pray for them to have access to their family, lawyers, and other basic needs and rights (The Holy Bible, Psalm 17:13).
Pray for the restoration of democracy in Niger. Pray for justice to prevail in the nation against the oppressive military rule (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 1:17).
News Source: Human Rights Watch
Image Source: Canva
