On Thursday, US President Joe Biden made a call for the immediate release of Niger’s democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, and emphasized the importance of preserving the country’s democracy.
In a statement issued on the 63rd anniversary of Niger’s independence, President Biden urged for the prompt release of President Bazoum and his family, while also stressing the need to safeguard Niger’s hard-earned democratic system.
During this crucial moment, the United States stands in solidarity with the people of Niger, honoring their long-standing partnership based on shared democratic values and support for civilian-led governance, as stated by Biden.
Last week, President Bazoum was removed from power in a coup executed by his own security forces, an action that received condemnation from the United States, European nations, and the United Nations.
President Biden emphasized that the people of Niger have the right to choose their leaders, and their will was expressed through free and fair elections, which must be respected.
In 2021, Bazoum’s election victory was celebrated as it marked Niger’s first peaceful transition of power, a significant milestone for a country that has experienced four previous coups since gaining independence from France in 1960.
Following the coup, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) issued a demand that the coup leaders reinstate Bazoum to power within a week, threatening possible “last resort” military intervention if the demand is not met. The clock is ticking on this ultimatum.
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