In a recent development that has stirred the ongoing political turmoil in Niger, the country's mutinous soldiers have announced their intention to prosecute former President Mohamed Bazoum on charges of "high treason" and for undermining state security. This declaration emerged shortly after the junta indicated its willingness to engage in talks with West African nations to address the escalating regional crisis.
If found guilty, Bazoum could potentially face the death penalty, as outlined by Niger's penal code.
Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, the spokesperson for the military regime, revealed in a televised statement on Sunday night that they had amassed the necessary evidence to present a case against the ousted president. The charges levied against Bazoum pertain to allegations of high treason and his alleged involvement in compromising Niger's internal and external security. The announcement refrained from specifying the identities of the Western countries involved or establishing a trial date.
Bazoum, who had been democratically elected as Niger's president, was forcibly removed from power on July 26 by members of his own presidential guard. Subsequently, he and his family have been placed under house arrest within the confines of the presidential compound in Niamey, the capital city.
Reports from sources close to Bazoum and his political party have highlighted a distressing situation, alleging that essential services such as electricity and water have been cut off, and their food supplies are dwindling. However, the junta refuted these claims and attributed them to a misinformation campaign orchestrated by West African politicians and international allies to discredit their administration.
The international community has been increasing pressure on the junta to release Bazoum and reinstate him to power. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had initially given the regime a seven-day ultimatum to restore Bazoum to power or face military intervention. However, this deadline passed without any concrete action from either side. ECOWAS subsequently authorized the deployment of a "standby" force, though the specifics and timing of its involvement remain uncertain.
The junta's newfound willingness to engage in dialogue with ECOWAS could be attributed to the mounting pressure from economic and travel sanctions, which have begun to adversely affect Niger's population. Nonetheless, experts caution against placing undue optimism in these talks, citing the junta's potential reluctance to genuinely commit to a resolution.
While the possibility of talks unfolds, the military is continuing to mobilize. Senegal's security forces, for example, issued an order on August 11 for a "regroupment" from their bases as part of the ECOWAS mission in Niger, although the details of this movement remain unclear.
In the aftermath of the coup, the junta has solidified its grip on power, forming a new government and exploiting anti-French sentiments to rally support. The situation is becoming increasingly tense for those who oppose the junta, as well as for foreign nationals and journalists operating in Niger.
In addition to the political upheaval, there has been a resurgence of jihadi violence. Niger had been a key partner for Western nations in the fight against jihadi groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State. However, military operations from France, the United States, and other European countries were suspended following the coup. Recent attacks by groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaida's affiliate, JNIM, indicate a shift in the dynamics of the conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, uncertainties persist, and the balance of power remains delicate. Amid the chaos, former jihadi fighters reportedly celebrate the disruption and increased freedom of movement. The situation presents a challenge for efforts to reintegrate former fighters into society, potentially fueling further instability.
In the midst of these complexities, Niger's political future hangs in the balance, and the road to resolution remains fraught with challenges.