The military junta in Niger Republic has reportedly issued a grave threat concerning the detained President, Mohamed Bazoum. According to sources, if any military intervention is attempted to reinstate Bazoum to power, the junta has threatened to execute him. This disturbing revelation emerged shortly after the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) activated a standby force in response to the ongoing political turmoil in Niger.
During a visit to Niger, U.S. Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland was reportedly informed about this threat to Bazoum by representatives of the junta. The anonymous sources from a Western military official and a U.S. official confirmed this account to The Associated Press.
Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown in a coup led by Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani on July 26, 2023, has been under house arrest since. ECOWAS responded by deciding to deploy a standby force to restore democracy in Niger. However, the details about the composition, location, and timeline for the intervention force were not provided.
Despite ECOWAS’s seven-day ultimatum for the restoration of constitutional order, the Niger military leaders proceeded to appoint a Prime Minister, indicating their intention to establish a new government. The ongoing situation has raised concerns about the stability and future of Niger’s political landscape.