The lawyer for Niger’s ousted President Mohamed Bazoum has raised concerns that the former head of state could face the death penalty as the country marks a year since the coup that removed him from power.
Last month, Niger’s top court removed Mr. Bazoum’s immunity from prosecution, allowing him to be tried for treason – a crime punishable by death – and other alleged offenses. Mr. Bazoum, along with his wife Hadiza, has been held in detention for the past year with limited communication and visitation rights, according to their lawyer Moussa Coulibaly.
Despite calls from France for their release, junta leader Gen Abdourahamane Tiani remains defiant, stating that no state or foreign organization can dictate Niger’s actions.
The situation in Niger has raised concerns among human rights organizations, with at least 30 former government officials and individuals associated with Mr. Bazoum being arbitrarily detained. Journalists have also been targeted, further eroding press freedom in the country.
Mr. Coulibaly expressed doubts about the existence of the rule of law in Niger, warning that Mr. Bazoum could face an unfair trial with the possibility of the death penalty if convicted.
The military junta in Niger has shifted its alliances towards Russia after cutting ties with France, its former colonial power. Despite promises to improve security, challenges persist, leading to frustration among citizens.
The crackdown on independent media and dissent by the military regime has drawn criticism from rights groups, with the Sahel region becoming increasingly difficult for journalists to operate in.
As the US prepares to withdraw its troops from Niger, concerns remain about the country’s stability and the implications of the political turmoil on regional security. The situation in Niger continues to evolve, with the fate of Mr. Bazoum and the country’s future hanging in the balance.
