Niger’s military junta is entrenching its power through authoritarian practices, including the suppression of dissent, arbitrary detentions, and governance by decree. Human rights violations are escalating, leading to fear among citizens and greater isolation internationally. Reports highlight a pattern of repression, including the treatment of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and heightened threats against civil society.
Niger’s military junta has intensified its authority, suppressing dissent, detaining political opponents, and governing through decrees. Civil liberties are deteriorating, engendering fear among citizens and isolating the country internationally. Following the coup on July 26, 2023, the situation has escalated towards authoritarianism, with Amnesty International highlighting severe human rights violations and repression of civil discourse.
The junta has silenced critical voices in the name of “state security” and imposed measures that violate free speech, association, and access to information. Marceau Sivieude, acting regional director at Amnesty International, commented on the prevalence of arbitrary detentions and the systematic neglect of court rulings.
According to a regional expert, the junta’s paranoia has led to violent suppression against potential threats, marking a trend that was already evident under the previous regime. The expert expressed concern that the current government, more fragile than others, maintains a siege mentality due to its tumultuous rise to power.
The treatment of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum exemplifies the oppressive environment, as he has been detained along with his wife since the coup. Despite a ruling from the Economic Community of West African States Court of Justice deeming their detention arbitrary, the junta has not complied with orders for their release. Bazoum was later charged with “high treason,” while no charges have been filed against his wife.
The junta, intently fearful of internal dissent, exhibits signs of extreme caution, with leader Abdourahamane Tiani reportedly rarely leaving the presidential palace. Furthermore, seven former ministers remain arbitrarily detained, reflecting the junta’s blatant disregard for judicial authority. Ousmane Diallo of Amnesty International remarked on the increasing normalization of arbitrary governance.
Additionally, Niger is currently governed by decree without a transition charter. The junta has consolidated all powers under the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, and political parties have been suspended. New decrees have been introduced to list perceived threats based on vague criteria, enabling targeted actions against critics, such as asset freezes or loss of citizenship.
The repressive actions have left civil society shaken, with journalists and activists fearing imprisonment for criticism. Diallo noted that self-censorship becomes commonplace amid threats of retaliation. The closure of many media outlets, including major channels like France 24 and the BBC, has exacerbated the information crisis, limiting the free flow of knowledge and contributing to a climate of fear.
In summary, Niger’s ruling junta has firmly consolidated its power through the repression of dissent and the erosion of civil liberties since the July 2023 coup. The regime’s disregard for legal structures and human rights has led to arbitrary detentions and a climate of fear for citizens, particularly among journalists and activists. The junta’s actions signify a deepening authoritarian regime that poses significant challenges for civil society and the rule of law in Niger.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
