The Niger junta has announced its intention to prosecute former President Mohamed Bazoum on charges of high treason due to his communications with foreign leaders and international organizations. The junta’s spokesperson, Colonel Amadou Abdramane, disclosed this in a statement broadcast on state TV, citing evidence gathered that alleges Bazoum undermined both internal and external security.
Following Bazoum’s ousting in a coup by the presidential guard, Niger Republic has been embroiled in political turmoil. West African leaders heightened their stance against the coup leaders, directing the deployment of a regional standby force to restore democracy in the nation.
Despite an initial deadline for the resolution of the crisis passing without significant changes, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders expressed a preference for diplomatic resolution and indicated a willingness to use troops only as a last resort.
Meanwhile, General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of the Niger Junta, has shown openness to diplomatic dialogue. During a meeting with Nigeria’s intervention team, Tchiani expressed his willingness to engage in talks with ECOWAS. Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Zeine, conveyed Tchiani’s readiness for dialogue, expressing hope for forthcoming discussions in the next few days.