Niger: Mohamed Bazoum set to regain freedom «with strings attached»
The fate of the former President of Niger, Mohamed BAZOUM, who was ousted on July 26, 2023, and is currently held on corruption charges, takes a complex turn amid ECOWAS mediation efforts. Since the recent summit where Togo and two other countries were designated to negotiate with the ruling CNSP for a resolution of the crisis, the situation appears to be evolving, but obstacles remain.
International attention has recently focused on the release of Salem BAZOUM, the son of the former president, and his wife Kadjidja.
However, speculation about the imminent release of the ex-President is tempered by strict conditions.
Under mediation, particularly by Togo, the CNSP has agreed to release Mohamed Bazoum’s son and wife.
However, the full release of the ousted President is hindered by conditions set by the Nigerien Head of State, General Abdourahamane Tiani, to ECOWAS.
While some concessions have been made during negotiations, differences persist.
The new authorities insist, first and foremost, that Mohamed Bazoum, who refuses to resign, renounces any presidential claim after his release.
Additionally, they demand that he does not leave Niger, fearing that he might create opposition from a foreign capital, supported by heads of state in the sub-region still sympathetic to his cause.
These conditions create tension with ECOWAS, which seems inclined to allow the former president freedom of movement, even the possibility of leaving Niamey.
Negotiations are still ongoing, and a resolution could be reached as early as next March.
In this regard, on January 25, the Togolese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, will again travel to Niamey to continue discussions, according to well-informed sources.
Yannick PHALLUS
