On July 26, 2023, Niger’s military coup led to the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, resulting in severe repression and human rights abuses. Political figures were arrested, media freedoms were suspended, and a new cybercrime law further stifled critical expressions. The international community is called to advocate for human rights and restore democratic processes in Niger.
On July 26, 2023, Niger experienced a military coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The military, led by the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), justified the takeover by citing deteriorating security and economic mismanagement. However, this led to widespread repression, human rights violations, and the suppression of dissenting voices, with the authorities swiftly consolidating power, limiting civil liberties, and targeting opposition figures.
Following the coup, political figures faced arbitrary arrests, with political party activities suspended. Former President Bazoum, along with his family, was placed under house arrest, enduring limited medical access and legal representation. Despite a court ruling by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their release, Bazoum remains detained, alongside former ministers who were arrested under questionable charges.
Press freedom has drastically declined, with major international media outlets suspended, and journalists facing arrests and intimidation for voicing criticism against the regime. Civil society members, including activists and journalists, have been severely affected, leading to a climate of self-censorship and fear among the populace.
The crackdown extends to civil society organizations, where activists are labeled as “unpatriotic” and subject to constant harassment. Notably, critics have been detained for social media posts. Protests against the military regime are met with violent crackdowns, and the right to peaceful assembly is effectively nullified.
An amendment to Niger’s cybercrime law in June 2024 has further stifled freedom of expression. This law facilitates severe penalties for posting materials deemed critical to the government, contributing to a climate of fear among citizens who express dissent. This vague legislation is used to prosecute individuals, effectively quashing public discourse and fostering widespread self-censorship.
Over eighteen months since the coup, Niger remains entrenched in political repression without a return to constitutional order. Amnesty International urges the military authorities to release arbitrarily detained individuals, restore the rule of law, and end attacks on civil liberties. The call extends to the international community to advocate for human rights in Niger, emphasizing that the nation should not sacrifice these rights amid political upheaval.
Niger’s political landscape faces significant challenges following the military coup of July 2023, characterized by human rights violations, repression of dissent, and a crackdown on press and civil society. The government’s arbitrary arrests, suspension of media outlets, and amendments to cybercrime laws have undermined freedoms, creating a climate of fear among the populace. International advocacy is essential to restoring human rights and democratic norms in Niger.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
