Niger’s top court on Friday revoked the immunity of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, clearing the way for a potential trial following the military coup that ousted him in July 2023.
What They Are Saying
The court’s president, Abdou Dan Galadima, announced the decision, marking a significant move by the military regime that took power in November. Bazoum is now facing serious charges, including treason, financing terrorism, and plotting to destabilize the state.
Since the coup on July 26, Bazoum and his wife Hadiza have been under house arrest at the presidential residence.
One of Bazoum’s lawyers, Ould Salem Mohamed, acknowledged the court’s decision and indicated that the defense team would issue a statement soon.
“The court orders the lifting of Mohamed Bazoum’s immunity,” said Abdou Dan Galadima, president of the court, created in November by the new military regime.
Why It Matters
Bazoum is accused of seeking external support during the coup, allegedly contacting French President Emmanuel Macron and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to request an armed intervention.
The court hearing had been delayed twice, with Bazoum’s legal team citing numerous obstacles to mounting an effective defense. Despite a December order from the West African bloc ECOWAS demanding Bazoum’s immediate release, Niger withdrew from the regional group a month later.
Bottom Line
In my opinion, this coup is a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy in some regions. The military’s justification for its actions seems flimsy at best, and the treatment of Bazoum is an affront to the principles of fair trial and justice. The situation in Niger underscores the need for international scrutiny and pressure to restore democratic governance and uphold human rights.
