UN Security Council Calls for Immediate Release of Niger’s President

The UN Security Council strongly condemned the coup in Niger and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of President Mohamed Bazoum.

The United Nations Security Council issued a resolute condemnation of the attempted unconstitutional change in the legitimate government of the Republic of Niger on July 26, 2023. 

In a joint statement adopted after the Friday meeting, Security Council members expressed their deep concern over the situation.

The Security Council called for the immediate and unconditional release of President Mohamed Bazoum, emphasizing the imperative to safeguard his safety and that of his cabinet members and family. 

The Council stressed the utmost urgency to reinstate the constitutional order in Niger in alignment with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

Furthermore, the Council emphasized the critical importance of protecting the population and ensuring the uninterrupted provision of humanitarian aid during this tumultuous period.

Late on July 26, mutinous soldiers in Niger claimed to have removed President Bazoum from power, announcing the closure of the country's borders and the suspension of the Constitution. 

They established the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, assuming all government powers. In a televised statement, the mutineers pledged to ensure the safety of former government officials.

General Abdourahamane Tchiani has declared himself the head of the newly formed National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland in Niger.

Reports indicate that President Bazoum is currently being held at a residence situated in the military base of the Presidential Guard, led by General Tchiani.