Niger: ban of pro-Bazoum protest slated for Nov. 25

Niger authorities outlawed a protest by a civil society group that was slated for November 25 to demand the liberation of ousted leader Mohamed Bazoum and the return of the rule of law and democracy in the West African country, governed since July 26 by a junta led by General Abdourahamane Tiani.

The protest, organized by Le Front pour une Citoyenneté Responsable, was to take place at “la place de la concertation”, in capital Niamey.

Niamey authorities banned the demonstration on the ground of security issues, infiltration, and public order risks.

Bazoum, in power since 2021, was removed on July 26 and placed along his family under house arrest. Since then, the new authorities have prohibited any pro-Bazoum demonstration.

On August 13, security forces dispersed a protest in favor of the deposed president. The organizers and several other people were rounded.

Early October the Court of Niamey ordered the immediate release of Salem Mohamed, son of Bazoum, arguing that Salem is a victim of “assault” and “manifestly unlawful disturbance”.

Bazoum’s defense team filed in early September 2023 a lawsuit against the junta before the ECOWAS regional Court and the UN Human Rights Council for his “unlawful detention.”