At a critical juncture in Niger’s history, elected president Mohamed Bazoum is living his second year held captive in the presidential palace, reflecting an unprecedented political and security crisis. Mohamed Sahnoun, Bazoum’s special advisor and member of the political bureau of PNDS–Tarayya, revealed in an exclusive interview with La Presse Marocaine key insights into the ongoing crisis.
Secret Moroccan and Qatari Mediations
Sahnoun confirmed that Morocco initiated a secret mediation since September 2023, led by the General Directorate for Studies and Documentation (DGED) under Yassine Mansouri, including three delegations sent to Niamey to negotiate with the Military Council. Yet, no tangible progress was achieved by the end of 2024. Qatar also attempted mediation, but both efforts failed, according to Sahnoun, due to the obstruction by former President Issoufou Mahamadou, fearing Bazoum’s return to power.
“Bazoum is practically considered a human pawn by his captors. Nothing justifies his detention in the presidential palace; he is a symbol of arbitrary detention and democracy,” Sahnoun said.
Detention and Conditions
President Bazoum is held in a specific wing of the presidential palace, along with his wife Hadiza Bazoum, and only sees his doctor twice a week. His phone was confiscated in October 2023, a measure unrelated to Morocco.
Economic and Security Deterioration
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Economy: The border closure with Benin has disrupted supplies, causing delays of three to four months, worsening inflation and daily hardship.
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Security: The army lost over 1,480 soldiers in two years, whereas during Bazoum’s two years and three months in office, only 57 soldiers died. Civilians face daily deadly attacks, and most regions are under terrorist threat, except for Zinder.
Popularity and Political Symbolism
Despite his detention, Bazoum remains extremely popular, and Sahnoun believes that if free elections were held, his victory would be inevitable. Bazoum is described as the most honest and upright president Niger has ever known, while history will note Issoufou’s attempt to undermine his successor’s legacy.
Appeal to the International Community
Sahnoun urged the international community to use all legitimate means of pressure to secure the release of Bazoum and his wife, as well as all political prisoners, warning that prolonging this crisis intensifies the suffering of the people and threatens national stability.
