Niger’s military rulers have released more than 50 detainees, including former ministers from the government they overthrew in 2023. However, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum remains under house arrest despite continued international calls for his release.
Among those freed are the former ministers of defense, oil, and finance, as well as senior army officers previously accused or convicted of plotting coups. The decision follows recommendations from a national conference in February, which also extended junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani’s rule by five years.
When asked about Bazoum’s continued detention, Justice Minister Aliyou Daouda cited “national security and sovereignty” concerns, stating that his fate is an internal matter. The former president is accused of undermining national security and committing high treason.
The mass release could be an attempt by the junta to reconcile political divisions and gain public support. Similar amnesties have been issued by military governments in Burkina Faso and Guinea.
Since taking power, Niger’s military rulers have cut ties with France, strengthened relations with Russia, and ordered the withdrawal of French military forces. Niger has also left the West African regional bloc ECOWAS alongside fellow military-led states Mali and Burkina Faso, further straining diplomatic relations in the region.
