Release of Mohamed Bazoum Salem

Niger’s military tribunal has granted provisional release to Mohamed Bazoum Salem, the 23-year-old son of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, from house arrest in Niamey.

Salem and his parents were detained at the presidential residence since the July coup that ousted his father.

The coup faced widespread condemnation and sanctions from the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS). The international community called for the release of Bazoum and a return to democratic rule.

However, the ECOWAS Court of Justice declared the detention of Bazoum’s family arbitrary and ordered the reinstatement of President Bazoum. The junta now has one month to outline how it plans to execute this order.

The ruling adds pressure for a resolution and emphasizes the need for adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law in Niger.