Amnesty International’s report reveals that Nigerien military authorities have not upheld their human rights commitments following the July 2023 coup. The report documents severe violations including arbitrary detentions and suppression of freedoms. Amnesty calls for the respect of human rights and the immediate release of arbitrarily detained individuals, emphasizing that the situation remains dire as fear stifles dissent.
Amnesty International has released a report indicating that the military-led authorities in Niger have failed to uphold their commitment to human rights and civil liberties post-coup. The report, titled “Niger: Threatened and Brought to Heel: Human Rights and Civic Space under Pressure Since the 26 July Coup,” details a deterioration in civic space and violations of civil and political rights since the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.
The organization highlights various human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, abuses of detainees, violations of fair trial rights, and infringements on press freedom. Victims of these violations include former President Bazoum, his spouse, several cabinet ministers, journalists, and human rights defenders.
Despite initial commitments to uphold the rule of law and respect human rights, many breaches have been reported. “Upon taking power, the new authorities justified their coup on a continued worsening of the security situation and poor governance. Our report shows that they have clearly failed,” stated Marceau Sivieude, Interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International.
On 28 July 2023, the military-led National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland suspended the 2010 Constitution. Although they professed commitment to democratic principles and human rights, the realities indicate otherwise, as arbitrary detentions and court rulings continue to be flouted. Furthermore, the detention of former President Bazoum and his wife persists, despite a ruling from the ECOWAS Court deeming it arbitrary.
Amnesty International urges Nigerien authorities to adhere to both international and regional human rights treaties. Recent developments include the suspension of political party activities and the reinstatement of prison sentences for defamation. A national registry identifying individuals allegedly involved in terrorism has also been misused to target government critics.
Freedom of expression has been severely stifled, exemplified by the suspension of the Press House and the arbitrary detentions of journalists, including Ousmane Toudou, a former communications adviser to Bazoum. Other journalists have also faced legal repercussions due to their critiques of the regime.
In this environment, self-censorship among journalists and human rights defenders has become widespread, as fear of government retaliation grows. “If you criticize the government, be sure that you risk being arrested,” stated a civil society member. With an extended transition period anticipated, Amnesty International emphasizes the necessity for authorities to uphold international commitments, including the release of arbitrarily detained individuals and guaranteeing fundamental rights.
In conclusion, the situation in Niger has gravely deteriorated concerning human rights and civil liberties since the military coup in July 2023. Amnesty International’s report underscores significant violations, including arbitrary detentions and suppression of free expression. The military authorities are called upon to honor their commitments to democracy and human rights while addressing the ongoing abuses against political opponents and civil society actors. Immediate action is essential to restore rights and uphold international treaties.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
