Niger’s mutinous soldiers have revealed their intention to prosecute deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for “high treason” and undermining state security. This announcement came just hours after the junta expressed their willingness to engage in dialogue with West African nations to resolve the escalating regional crisis. If convicted, Bazoum could potentially receive the death penalty under Niger’s penal code.
Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, the spokesman, stated on state television Sunday night that the military regime had gathered sufficient evidence to prosecute the ousted president and his accomplices, both domestic and foreign, for high treason and for compromising Niger’s internal and external security. The statement did not specify a trial date or identify the specific Western countries involved.
Bazoum, who was democratically elected as Niger’s president, was overthrown by members of his presidential guard on July 26 and has been under house arrest with his family in the presidential compound in the capital, Niamey. Reports have emerged that his family’s basic utilities such as electricity and water have been cut off, and they are running out of food. The junta, however, denies these reports and accuses regional politicians and international partners of spreading disinformation to discredit them.
There is mounting international pressure on the junta to release and reinstate Bazoum. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) initially gave the regime seven days to restore him to power or face military intervention, but no action has been taken by either side. ECOWAS has now authorized the deployment of a standby force but has not provided details on when or if it will enter Niger. The African Union Peace and Security Council will hold a meeting on Monday to discuss the crisis and may overrule ECOWAS’ decision if it deems an intervention threatens overall peace and security in Africa.
While the junta has expressed openness to dialogue with ECOWAS, military mobilization continues, as indicated by a memo from Senegal’s security forces ordering a regroupment on Monday as part of the ECOWAS mission in Niger. The details of the regroupment and its purpose remain unclear.
Meanwhile, the junta has solidified its control, forming a new government and capitalizing on anti-French sentiment to gain support. This has created a tense environment for those opposing the junta, as well as for foreigners and journalists. Additionally, jihadi violence is on the rise since the coup, with attacks attributed to both the Islamic State and al-Qaida-linked groups. Western nations had viewed Niger as a crucial democratic partner in countering this violence in the Sahel region, leading countries like France and the United States to invest significant resources into supporting Niger’s military. However, military operations have been suspended since the coup.
Experts warn that the current crisis may provide an opportunity for jihadi groups to consolidate power and carry out more attacks due to the halted cooperation and communication established under Bazoum’s leadership. With the security gap widening, former jihadis predict an increase in attacks as the situation evolves.
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