Niamey, Niger – The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Niger’s former President Mohamed Bazoum and his wife, Hadiza, who have been detained since a military coup in July 2023. The UN panel deems their prolonged detention as “arbitrary” and a violation of international law, advocating for their freedom and the right to seek compensation.
Since their ousting, Bazoum and his wife have been confined to a wing of the presidential residence in Niamey, with limited external contact. Only their doctor has been permitted to visit them, and reports indicate that they have been deprived of electricity and running water for extended periods. Despite international condemnation, including previous appeals from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the ruling junta has not responded to these calls.
The military government has not provided any explanation for Bazoum’s lengthy detention or the absence of legal proceedings. In June 2024, the junta-appointed Supreme Court lifted Bazoum’s presidential immunity, paving the way for a potential trial on charges of “high treason” and “undermining the country’s security,” offenses that could carry the death penalty. However, no trial date has been set, and the junta has not furnished any evidence to substantiate these allegations.
The international community has expressed growing concern over Bazoum’s detention conditions and the junta’s disregard for democratic principles. In December 2023, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice ordered Bazoum’s release and reinstatement as president, but the junta rejected the ruling and subsequently withdrew Niger from the regional bloc.
Observers note that the junta’s continued detention of Bazoum and his wife without due process sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the rule of law in Niger. The UN’s recent call adds to the mounting international pressure on the junta to uphold human rights and restore constitutional order. As of now, the junta has not issued a response to the UN’s latest demand.
