Niger junta frees ministers of toppled government

Niger’s military junta announced it has released around 50 prisoners, including ministers and officials from the government it brought down in the 2023 coup, according to France 24 on April 2nd. 

Former President Mohammed Bazoum was not among the 50 people freed, that include former ministers, a diplomat and soldiers accused of a coup attempt in 2010.

“These individuals are being released in accordance with the recommendations of the National Forum for Reconstruction,” the government’s general secretariat said in a statement.

Those freed include former oil Minister Mahamane Sani Issoufou, the son of former President Mahamadou Issoufou, previous defence Minister Kalla Moutari, former finance Minister Ahmat Jidoud and former energy Minister Ibrahim Yacoubou. 

President of PNDS Foumakoye Gado – the party formerly in power – and journalist Ousmane Toudou were also freed. 

Most were arrested following General Abdourahamane Tiani 2023 coup, in which the former head of the presidential guard reshuffled the political landscape in Niger. 

They were held in various prisons on charges such as “conspiracy to undermine the security and the authority of the State.” 

President Bazoum, who still faces similar charges, saw his immunity being lifted, and still awaits a date for his trial to be set. 

This gesture came after recommendations from the National conference held in January, which also authorised the ruling junta to stay in power over the next five years.

“I wish to reiterate my commitment to always work for forgiveness and reconciliation among Nigeriens,” junta leader Tiani declared during his inauguration as president. 

The military junta’s rule has brought a radical overturn in the country’s foreign policy, with the severance of all relations with France and the expulsion of French and American forces waging a campaign against jihadism in the region.

This follows a broader regional pattern, as Mali and Burkina Faso, also facing terrorist threats, have also cut their ties to France.

The three countries have recently left the historical ECOWAS organisation (Economic Community of West African States), and created their own, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), thereby looking towards Russia for military support.  

France 24