The European Parliament recently passed a resolution pressing for the release of Niger’s former president, Mohamed Bazoum, by April 2 — the date his constitutional mandate would have ended. The resolution “strongly condemns the continued arbitrary detention of democratically elected President Bazoum and his wife” and demanded their “immediate and unconditional release,” calling on the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to secure his freedom. The EU also urged Nigerien authorities to restore democratic order, reinstate political parties, and hold free and fair elections.
Niamey reacted angrily, summoning the EU ambassador and accusing the bloc of interfering in Niger’s internal affairs. Several civil society groups backed the government, and hundreds demonstrated in support of the regime. At the protest, some attendees said Niger’s political affairs should be decided by Nigeriens alone and expressed distrust of former colonial powers, alleging those powers seek control of the country’s natural resources.
Bazoum took office on April 2, 2021, in a peaceful, democratic transfer of power — the first of its kind since independence — an orderly succession that earned his predecessor Mahamadou Issoufou recognition for leadership. Bazoum’s presidency faced immediate challenges: Islamist violence threatened stability, a contested run-off prompted protests, and authorities foiled a coup attempt just before his swearing-in.
In July 2023, a coup led by Abdourahamane Tchiani ended Bazoum’s presidency. The junta has kept Bazoum and his wife under house arrest in the presidential palace and shifted policy away from close ties with France and Europe — which it accuses of neo-colonialism — toward self‑determination and partnerships with Russia and allies, aligning with the newly founded Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Many Nigeriens accuse France of treating the country mainly as a supplier of oil and uranium. For decades, uranium mining was dominated by the French firm Orano (formerly Areva); the junta later withdrew the company’s license. At Monday’s demonstration, a protester blamed France for prompting the EU Parliament’s resolution.
The EU resolution was initiated by French MEP Christophe Gomart, a retired officer who once oversaw special operations. Gomart, now in the European People’s Party and deputy chair of the Parliament’s Committee on Security and Defense, defended the initiative, saying Bazoum should not be prosecuted for treason and noting that his election had aimed to bring prosperity. He warned that since Bazoum’s detention Niger’s security situation has deteriorated, with increases in arms trafficking, human trafficking and terrorism.
Gomart denied any intent to interfere, saying the resolution sought only Bazoum’s release, a return to constitutional order and democratic elections, and did not call for sanctions or prosecutions of the coup leaders.
Human rights figures in the region have also voiced concern. Alioune Tine, founder of the AfrikaJom Center, described Bazoum as a democratic leader who made progress toward peace and security. Nigerien journalist and activist Mamane Kaka Touda argued Bazoum should not be detained indefinitely: if immunity has been lifted and charges exist, the judiciary should handle them rather than keeping him confined in the presidential palace. He also reminded that the coup leaders had promised a three‑year timetable to restore constitutional order, and expressed hope they would honor that commitment.
This article was adapted from German.
Edited by: Chrispin Mwakideu
