“Mohamed Bazoum has been detained since the 2023 coup. His mandate ended in April 2026, with no change in his situation. Between international pressure and …
— Ouattara Zana Abou
A president overthrown and always restrained
Since the coup d'état of July 26, 2023, Mohamed Bazoum has been detained in the presidential palace of Niamey by the military junta. He is kept with his wife under strict conditions, with very limited access. à outside. Despite After his fall, he never officially resigned, always claiming his legitimacy as a leader. democratic.
A mandate ended, but no political outcome
April 2, 2026 officially marks the end of his presidential term. However, this deadline did not result in any further delays. no concrete change. The ruling junta has not given any permission. no signal about a possible release or trial. His status remains completely unclear: former head of state, but still a political prisoner.
International pressures without effect
Several international organizations, including the European Union and the United Nations, denounce a detention deemed arbitrary and call for his release. But the junta led by Abdourahamane Tchiani rejects these pressures and considers the matter internal.
A future suspended on the decisions of the junta
Today, three scenarios dominate: prolonged detention, a trial for “high treason,” or release under international pressure. None of these scenarios is confirmed. In any case, Bazoum's fate remains closely linked to à the political evolution of Niger, always directed by the by the military.
An elected president who became a political prisoner: the Bazoum case symbolizes the current impasse in Niger.
