Former president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, and his wife, Hadiza, have been arbitrarily detained at the presidential palace in Niamey since his ouster in a military coup on July 26, 2023.
Gatekeepers News reports that the UN working group on arbitrary detention has called for their immediate release, stating that their detention is “arbitrary” and that they should be granted the right to obtain compensation.
Bazoum was overthrown by General Abdourahamane Tiani, who accused him of failing to protect the nation from jihadist attacks. Since his detention, Bazoum has had no contact with the outside world, and only a doctor is allowed to visit him to bring food and medicine.
The UN has rejected the military government’s explanations for Bazoum’s detention, stating that they have not provided any valid reasons for his lengthy detention or the absence of trials.
A junta-appointed court lifted Bazoum’s presidential immunity in June, paving the way for an eventual trial, but no date has been set.
