Niger’s junta has released about 50 individuals, primarily former ministers from the ousted government, following national conference recommendations. Ousted President Bazoum remains detained, amid renewed promises from junta leader Tiani for commitment to reconciliation. The junta has distanced itself from France while fostering ties with neighboring military regimes and Russia.
On Tuesday, Niger’s junta announced the release of approximately 50 individuals, which notably includes ministers from the government they overthrew in July 2023. This action aligns with the outcomes of a national conference conducted in February, aimed at reconciliation and rebuilding the nation. However, the ousted former president, Mohamed Bazoum, remains in detention despite various international appeals for his release.
The released individuals comprise former government officials such as Mahamane Sani Issoufou, Kalla Moutari, Ahmat Jidoud, and Ibrahim Yacoubou, all of whom have faced charges related to attempts to undermine state security. Other notable figures released include Foumakoye Gado, president of the former ruling party, journalist Ousmane Toudou, and former Nigerian ambassador Alat Mogaskia, all of whom were detained post-coup.
General Abdourahamane Tiani, who led the coup, expressed a commitment to forgiveness and reconciliation following his recent inauguration. He emphasized that these concepts must not interfere with the justice expected by the citizens of Niger. Furthermore, under Tiani’s guidance, relations with France have been severed, with forces expelled from the fight against jihadists, resulting in stronger ties with Burkina Faso and Mali, which are also under military rule.
The junta has formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) alongside its neighbors and is strengthening relations with Russia, with discussions anticipated between their foreign ministers and Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. This realignment signifies a notable shift in Niger’s foreign policy post-coup, as the military leaders seek to navigate both national and regional challenges effectively.
In summary, the Niger junta’s recent release of numerous detainees, including former ministers, marks a significant step towards national reconciliation as advocated in a recent national conference. Nevertheless, the continued detention of former president Mohamed Bazoum raises concerns about political justice and the broader implications of the junta’s shift in foreign relations, particularly towards Russia and the Sahel region’s military cooperation.
Original Source: www.webstercountycitizen.com
