One year after a coup in Niger, ousted president Mohamed Bazoum is still being held under strict detention in Niamey by the ruling military — and the prospect of a looming trial worries those close to him
Bazoum was overthrown on July 26, 2023 by General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of his presidential guard. Elected in 2021, he has never resigned and still claims to be president of the Sahelian country.
Since the coup, Mohamed Bazoum and his wife, Hadiza, have been held at the presidential palace in Niamey.
His last public appearance was on August 19, 2023 when national television footage showed him on the steps of the residence during a visit by a Nigerian mediator.
Conditions have since tightened, with the military accusing him in October of attempting to escape — a claim disputed by his lawyers.
Bazoum’s phone has been taken and only his doctor can visit him, twice a week.
Despite the harsh conditions, Bazoum remains steadfast.
“According to him, they are physically fine. Their spirits are very high. The president is committed to continuing his resistance,” his communications advisor, Hamid N’Gade, told AFP.
“He is a man of conviction and a staunch republican. Resigning makes no sense to him.”
In January, his son Salem Bazoum, who had been detained with his parents, was provisionally released and left the country for Togo.
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