In a desperate turn of events, supporters and allies of Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum are no longer seeking restoration to power, but rather, a plea to save his life.
Amidst a nearly three-week-long ordeal, President Bazoum, who leads the sole Western-allied democracy across a vast expanse of Africa’s Sahara and Sahel regions, is now confined with his family in a dark basement within his presidential compound.
Niger President’s Crisis: Imprisonment and Starvation Amid Junta Takeover
The junta that orchestrated his ousting has cut off essential supplies including food, electricity, and cooking gas, and has essentially imprisoned the president and his family.
Niger’s ambassador to the United States, Mamadou Kiari Liman-Tinguiri, disclosed this grim situation, revealing that the junta’s intent seems to be starving the president to death.
“The plan of the head of the junta is to starve him to death,” Liman-Tinguiri said, emphasizing the direness of the situation.
As concerns mount about Bazoum’s well-being, the world’s attention is drawn to the cruel and inhuman treatment he is enduring.
While reports from multiple sources express concern for Bazoum’s worsening conditions, there are differing accounts about his state.
Activist Insa Garba Saidou, who supports the new military rulers, disputes the claims of dire mistreatment, asserting that Bazoum remains safe in his palace with access to his phone.
This crisis is noteworthy due to Bazoum’s ascension to power through a rare democratic presidential election in a region marked by instability.
Niger has experienced several military coups since its independence in 1960, but Bazoum’s peaceful, democratic transfer of power marked a significant departure from this trend.
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US Dilemma and Urgent Diplomatic Concerns
The turmoil in Niger resonates internationally for two reasons. Firstly, the United States has invested significantly in supporting Niger’s democracy, providing financial aid and building national forces to counter armed extremist groups.
Secondly, Niger’s strategic location has prompted a US-backed counterterror presence to curb the activities of jihadist organizations in West Africa.
However, the recent coup has placed the US in a complex situation.
Despite the circumstances surrounding Bazoum’s detention, the Biden administration refrains from categorizing it as a coup, as this would entail cutting military partnerships with Niger.
The junta’s response to diplomatic efforts further complicates the situation, with the junta members showing reluctance to restore democracy.
As international pressure mounts and concerns over President Bazoum’s health increase, diplomatic channels are actively seeking solutions.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed alarm over the situation and has cut aid to the government, as well as halted military cooperation.
However, with Bazoum’s life hanging in the balance, urgent action is needed to prevent further tragedy in this unfolding crisis.
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