The United States have expressed great concern and the West African regional bloc ECOWAS condemned on Monday (14 August) Niger’s military rulers’ threats to prosecute detained President Mohamed Bazoum, warning the move would exacerbate tensions. “We are incredibly dismayed by reports that President Bazoum’s unjust detention has gone even a step further,” State Department spokesman told reporters. By contrast, some Niamey residents have reportedly welcomed the ruling junta’s plans to prosecute their former president. The possible trial of Bazoum is a hot topic in the capital city, with some residents backing the plan. Meanwhile, the US has commended the Nigerian President Tinubu’s efforts leading ECOWAS and backed “maintaining pressure” on Niger’s military leaders, including through sanctions and the deployment of a ‘standby’ military force to reverse the 26 July coup.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 15, 2023 13:58 UTC