UN calls on Niger junta to free former president Mohamed Bazoum

Niger’s former president, Mohamed Bazoum

|Published 12:30 PM ET, Saturday February 15, 2025|

UN: The United Nations has called on the military junta in Niger to release the country’s former president, Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted in a coup in July 2023. The international community, including the UN, has been actively engaged in condemning the military takeover and urging a return to constitutional order.

Bazoum’s detention has drawn significant concern, with many seeing it as an affront to democracy and the rule of law in the region. The UN has emphasized the importance of respecting human rights, particularly the right to personal freedom, and called for negotiations to restore democratic governance.

The junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, has faced increasing pressure from both international actors and regional bodies like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has imposed sanctions on Niger.

The political crisis in Niger is part of a broader pattern of military takeovers in the Sahel region, which has raised alarms about instability and the potential for further unrest.

The situation remains tense, with diplomatic efforts continuing to find a peaceful resolution.