Niger: US Condemns Coup, ‘Detention’ Of President Bazoum

The United States of America expresses profound concern regarding the recent developments in Niger. We vehemently denounce any attempt to detain or undermine the functioning of Niger’s democratically elected government, which is led by President Bazoum. The United States stands firmly against any actions that threaten the stability and democratic principles of the country.

We specifically call on the elements within the presidential guard to release President Bazoum from detention and to avoid resorting to violence, as such actions only serve to exacerbate tensions and further destabilize the nation.

In this challenging time, we applaud and support the strong statements and measures taken by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) in defense of Niger’s democracy. Their unwavering stance sends a clear message that attempts to undermine democratic institutions and processes will not be tolerated in the region.

As events unfold, the United States is actively monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens in Niger. The protection of our people is of paramount importance, and we remain committed to supporting them during this period of uncertainty.

It is crucial to underscore that Niger holds a crucial partnership with the United States. Our nations share common values in upholding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Through collaborative efforts, we work towards advancing regional security and prosperity, recognizing the significance of Niger’s stability in the broader West African context.

However, we must emphasize that our substantial cooperation with the Government of Niger is contingent upon its unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and standards. Respect for the will of the people, transparent governance, and safeguarding democratic institutions are essential for our continued collaboration.

In conclusion, the United States reiterates its concern for the situation in Niger and urges all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue and respect democratic norms. We stand ready to support Niger in its pursuit of a peaceful and democratic future, fostering mutual prosperity and security for both our nations and the broader region.