Niger’s junta has freed around 50 individuals, including former government ministers, as part of a reconciliation effort following a February conference. Key figures among the released include former oil and defense ministers, while ousted president Bazoum remains detained. The junta has severed ties with Western allies and is strengthening relationships with regional partners and Russia.
On Tuesday, Niger’s junta announced the release of approximately 50 individuals, including former ministers from the government it overthrew in July 2023. This decision follows the recommendations of a “national conference” that took place in February. Those released include notable figures such as former oil minister Mahamane Sani Issoufou and former defense minister Kalla Moutari, while ousted president Mohamed Bazoum remains in custody despite international appeals for his release.
The released individuals also consist of a diplomat, a journalist, and military personnel involved in previous coup attempts. They were arrested following the coup that brought General Abdourahamane Tiani to power, facing charges related to a conspiracy against state security. The junta’s general secretariat announced their release as part of broader efforts attributed to the National Forum for Reconstruction.
Key individuals such as former finance minister Ahmat Jidoud and former energy minister Ibrahim Yacoubou were among those freed, along with journalist Ousmane Toudou. Additionally, soldiers previously convicted of coup attempts, such as General Salou Souleymane, were released. Their sentences were a result of actions aimed at overthrowing President Mahamadou Issoufou in 2015.
Junta leader General Tiani emphasized a commitment to forgiveness and reconciliation during his inauguration, asserting that these principles align with the people’s desire for justice. Since seizing power, the junta has cut ties with France and has seen the expulsion of French and American troops, redirecting its focus towards partnerships with Burkina Faso and Mali.
The newly formed Alliance of Sahel States, comprising Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, has shown a lean towards Russia, with foreign ministers planning visits to Moscow for discussions. This development signifies a significant shift in foreign relations and military strategy amid ongoing security concerns from jihadist threats in the region.
In summary, Niger’s junta has released approximately 50 individuals, including key ministers from the prior administration, adhering to recommendations from a national conference. While the junta pursues a path of reconciliation and forgiveness under General Tiani’s leadership, the ongoing detention of former president Bazoum and the reshaping of foreign relations indicate notable shifts in Niger’s political landscape and governance methods.
Original Source: www.webstercountycitizen.com
