More than two years after the military coup in Niger, former president Mohamed Bazoum and his wife are still being held without a clear legal reason. On March 11, the European Parliament passed a resolution asking for their immediate release and also raised concern about others detained after the coup. Niger’s government strongly reacted by summoning a representative of the European Union and accusing it of interference. Earlier, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the ECOWAS Court of Justice said the detention was illegal and should end. However, the military government has instead tried to bring serious charges against Bazoum, including high treason. His case shows a wider crackdown on opposition leaders, journalists, and activists. Many people from the former government and media are still in jail without fair trials, raising concerns about human rights and democracy in the country.

Pray for the end of oppressive rule in Niger and the restoration of freedom and democracy in the country. Pray for the hearts of the leaders to be transformed to serve the people with humility and integrity (The Holy Bible, Psalm 28:3).

Pray for the immediate and unconditional release of all the imprisoned political prisoners in Niger, including former president Mohamed Bazoum and his wife. that the civil rights and freedom are upheld and respected in the country (The Holy Bible, Psalm 118:7).

News Source: Human Rights Watch, Africanews

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