African Union Voices “Deep Concern” Over Conditions of Detained Niger President
The African Union (AU) has voiced its “deep concern” regarding the reported deplorable conditions of detention faced by Niger’s ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, describing the treatment meted out to him by coup leaders as “unacceptable.”
President Bazoum was overthrown by military leaders last month, triggering widespread international alarm.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Head of the AU Commission, issued a statement on Friday expressing his apprehension over the reported conditions of President Bazoum’s confinement.
Faki underscored that the mistreatment of a democratically elected leader who came to power through a legitimate electoral process is completely unacceptable.
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He noted that multiple sources have confirmed a disturbing decline in the conditions under which President Bazoum and his family are living.
In addition to the AU’s concerns, other global leaders have also raised their voices against the worsening situation faced by President Bazoum.
Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, and Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, have both expressed their distress about the deteriorating conditions endured by President Bazoum and his family.
Report shows President Bazoum is being held in isolation and subjected to meager sustenance, surviving on plain rice and pasta, while being denied access to essential medications.
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Moussa Faki Mahamat also voiced his firm endorsement for the measures taken by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
On Thursday, the regional organization approved the deployment of a standby force with the aim of restoring constitutional order in Niger.
This move is an assertive response to the recent coup, reflecting the international community’s determination to uphold democratic norms.
However, the attempt to dispatch a joint team comprised of ECOWAS, UN, and AU representatives to Niger’s capital city, Niamey, was met with refusal by the coup leaders earlier this week.
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This rejection highlights the complex challenges and diplomatic tensions that surround the efforts to address the situation and restore stability to the country.
The AU’s expression of concern and condemnation joins a growing chorus of international voices advocating for the rights and humane treatment of the deposed Nigerien President and his family.
As the situation continues to unfold, the global community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution that ensures respect for human rights, democratic principles, and the rule of law in Niger.
