Niger Under Lockdown: Two Years of Presidential Imprisonment

Niger Junta Marks Two Years of Arbitrary Detention of President Bazoum, International Calls for Release Intensify

Niamey, Niger – July 24, 2025 – As the arbitrary detention of Niger’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum enters its second year, international pressure mounts on the ruling junta to adhere to legal and human rights standards. Bazoum, ousted in a July 2023 coup, remains under house arrest, his situation a stark symbol of the wider crackdown on dissent and the erosion of democratic principles in Niger.

The West African regional bloc ECOWAS, which had initially imposed sanctions and threatened military intervention following the coup, has seen its authority challenged. In January 2025, Niger, alongside mali and Burkina Faso, formally withdrew from ECOWAS, signaling a significant shift in regional alliances and undermining efforts towards accountability.

Adding to the junta’s legal entanglements, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, an self-reliant body, declared in February 2025 that Bazoum’s detention, along with that of his wife, is unlawful, violating international human rights law. This ruling, echoing earlier decisions by ECOWAS courts, calls for their immediate release.The legal proceedings initiated by Niger’s authorities in April 2024 to strip Bazoum of his presidential immunity, paving the way for potential prosecution, have also drawn criticism. A June 2025 court ruling against Bazoum, which critics argue failed to meet basic due process and fair trial standards, has been flagged as a concerning move by the junta. The junta has since announced its intention to prosecute Bazoum for high treason, though a trial date remains unannounced.”Bazoum has been cruelly and unlawfully locked away for two years: without charge or trial, unable to speak to his children, his supporters, or even his lawyers,” stated Reed Brody, a member of Bazoum’s legal team.”Despite clear rulings from international courts and UN bodies demanding his release, he remains the hostage of a military junta.”

human Rights Watch views the treatment of President Bazoum as indicative of broader abuses by the military junta. The organization highlights a consistent pattern of suppressing political opposition, stifling peaceful dissent, and curtailing media freedom. The junta’s actions, including the delay in transitioning to civilian rule and the absence of credible, free, and fair elections, suggest an intent to consolidate power indefinitely.”Each day Bazoum spends in detention moves Niger further away from a democratic path,” commented a Human Rights Watch representative. “Two years on, niger’s authorities shoudl reconsider what type of message his continued detention sends across the region and the world.”

Evergreen Insight: The ongoing saga of President Bazoum’s detention underscores a critical global challenge: the struggle to uphold democratic governance and human rights in the face of military coups. International bodies and regional organizations play a vital role in advocating for the rule of law and the protection of fundamental freedoms. However, their effectiveness is often tested by the determination of juntas to resist external pressure and maintain control. The ability of international institutions to enforce their rulings and the willingness of nations to abide by international law remain crucial determinants of democratic resurgence and stability in affected regions. The situation in Niger serves as a potent reminder that the fight for democracy is a continuous process, requiring unwavering global commitment.

What are the potential long-term consequences of the continued presidential imprisonment on Niger’s democratic institutions?

The July 2023 Coup and its Immediate Aftermath

On July 26,2023,Niger experienced a military coup d’état,ousting President mohamed Bazoum.The Presidential Guard, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, detained Bazoum at the Presidential Palace in Niamey, effectively initiating a period of presidential imprisonment that continues as of July 2025. This event triggered a cascade of international condemnation and sanctions, plunging Niger into a state of political and economic lockdown. the coup leaders cited reasons including insecurity, poor economic and social governance, and corruption as justification for their actions.

Key events in the immediate aftermath included:

Suspension of Constitution: The military junta immediately suspended the constitution and dissolved all elected institutions.

Border Closures: Niger’s borders were closed, restricting movement of people and goods.

ECOWAS Sanctions: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed stringent sanctions, including financial restrictions, travel bans, and a threat of military intervention.

International Condemnation: The United Nations, African Union, the United States, france, and other international bodies condemned the coup and demanded Bazoum’s release.

The Impact of Sanctions and Regional isolation

The ECOWAS sanctions, intended to pressure the junta to reinstate Bazoum, have had a devastating impact on Niger’s economy and population. Niger, already one of the poorest countries in the world, relies heavily on imports and foreign aid. The sanctions have exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, leading to:

Economic Contraction: Niger’s GDP has significantly contracted, with projections indicating a prolonged period of economic hardship.

Food Security Crisis: restrictions on imports have led to shortages of essential food items and a sharp increase in prices, pushing millions towards food insecurity. The situation is notably dire in regions already affected by drought and desertification.

Healthcare System Strain: Sanctions have disrupted the supply of medical supplies and equipment, severely straining the already fragile healthcare system. Access to essential medicines has become limited, and healthcare facilities are struggling to cope with the increased demand.

Humanitarian Crisis: The combined effects of economic hardship, food insecurity, and healthcare shortages have created a growing humanitarian crisis, requiring urgent international assistance.

The Status of President Bazoum

President bazoum remains under house arrest as of July 2025. Reports indicate he is being held in increasingly arduous conditions, with limited access to communication and medical care. Concerns about his health and well-being have been repeatedly raised by international organizations and governments. The junta has consistently refused to negotiate his release or allow independent observers access to him.

The legal proceedings against Bazoum, initially focused on accusations of treason, have been largely opaque and lack due process.International legal experts have criticized the proceedings as politically motivated and lacking transparency.

Regional Dynamics and the Threat of Intervention

The coup in Niger has destabilized the Sahel region,already grappling with Islamist insurgency and political instability. The threat of military intervention by ECOWAS loomed large in the months following the coup, but was ultimately averted through diplomatic efforts. However, tensions remain high, and the possibility of future intervention cannot be ruled out.

Mali and Burkina Faso Support: The military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso have expressed solidarity with the Nigerien junta, warning against any external intervention. They have even formed a mutual defense pact, raising concerns about a potential escalation of conflict in the region.

Wagner Group Presence: The presence of the Wagner Group, a Russian private military company, in niger has further complicated the situation. The junta has reportedly sought assistance from Wagner mercenaries, raising concerns about Russia’s growing influence in the Sahel.

Shifting Alliances: The coup has led to a realignment of alliances in the region, with some countries distancing themselves from traditional partners like France and the United States, and seeking closer ties with Russia.

The Humanitarian Situation: A Deepening Crisis

The humanitarian situation in Niger continues to deteriorate. according to UN agencies:

Millions in Need: Over 11 million people, nearly half of the population, are in need of humanitarian assistance.

Malnutrition Rates: Malnutrition rates, particularly among children, have reached alarming levels.

Displacement: The ongoing insecurity and economic hardship have led to increased internal displacement.

* Funding Shortfalls: Humanitarian organizations are facing notable funding shortfalls, hindering their ability to provide adequate assistance.

The Future of Niger: Scenarios and Challenges

The future of Niger remains uncertain.Several scenarios are possible:

1. Continued Junta Rule: The junta consolidates its power, suppressing dissent and maintaining control