The military junta in Niger has announced its intent to prosecute the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum on charges of “high treason” and endangering national security. The announcement was delivered by spokesperson Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane on state television Sunday night. This follows their earlier indication of willingness to engage in dialogue with West African nations. To address the escalating regional crisis.
Deposed Niger President Bazoum, who was democratically elected. He was forcibly removed from power by his own presidential guard on July 26. Since then, he has been confined to house arrest alongside his wife and son in the presidential compound in the capital city, Niamey.
Reports have emerged from those close to the president and members of his ruling party, suggesting that basic necessities such as electricity, water, and food supplies have been cut off. The junta, however, denied these allegations on Sunday night. Accusing both West African politicians and international partners of spreading misinformation in an attempt to discredit their regime.
Pressure has mounted internationally for the junta to release and reinstate President Bazoum. Immediately following the coup, the West African regional bloc ECOWAS granted the junta a seven-day ultimatum to restore Bazoum to power or face potential military intervention. However, the deadline passed without any action from either side.
Last week, ECOWAS ordered the deployment of a standby force. Yet the specifics of when and if this force would enter Niger remain unclear. The situation continues to evolve as the junta’s actions and international responses shape the outcome of the crisis.