The West African bloc ECOWAS on Monday lashed threats by Niger’s military rulers to prosecute ousted president Mohamed Bazoum, saying this contradicted the regime’s declared willingness to resolve the crisis peacefully.
In a statement, ECOWAS said it had learned of the threats “with stupefaction… it represents yet another form of provocation and contradicts the reported willingness of the military authorities in the Republic of Niger to restore constitutional order through peaceful means.”
It said: “President BAZOUM remains the democratically-elected President of the Republic of Niger recognized by ECOWAS and the international community.”
ECOWAS therefore condemns the illegal detention of the deposed president and calls for his immediate release and reinstatement.
The ousted president and his family have been detained in the basement of the presidential palace since July 26.