Niger’s military government has released more than 50 political detainees, including former ministers who were arrested following the July 2023 coup. However, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum remains under house arrest despite mounting international pressure for his release.
Among those freed are former ministers of defence, oil, and finance, as well as several senior army officers who were either convicted or accused of plotting previous coups. The release follows recommendations from a national conference held in February, which also extended General Abdourahamane Tiani’s rule by five years.
Justice Minister Aliyou Daouda, when questioned about President Bazoum’s continued detention, cited concerns over national security and sovereignty. “The question of his release is an internal matter in Niger and only concerns Niger,” Daouda told the BBC. Bazoum has been accused of undermining national security and high treason, charges he and his supporters have strongly denied.
The release of the ministers and officials is seen as a potential move by the junta to reconcile the nation and strengthen its hold on power. Similar amnesties have been granted by military governments in Burkina Faso and Guinea, where juntas have also taken control in recent years.
Since overthrowing Bazoum’s democratically elected government, General Tchiani’s administration has made significant geopolitical shifts. Niger has strengthened ties with Russia while severing relations with its former colonial ruler, France. French troops have been ordered to withdraw from the country, signaling a broader shift in Niger’s strategic alliances.
Additionally, Niger’s relations with its West African neighbors have deteriorated. Alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger has withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), further isolating itself from regional diplomatic structures.
The political landscape in Niger remains tense, with international actors closely monitoring the situation. While the release of ministers may be viewed as a step toward national unity, the continued detention of Bazoum keeps the country’s democratic future uncertain. For now, the junta remains firm in its stance, showing no indication of bowing to international demands for the former president’s freedom.
