Niger Summons EU Representative Over Resolution Calling for Ex — President’s Release. Niamey, Niger — The government of Niger summoned the European Union’s chargé d’affaires in Niamey on Thursday in response to a European Parliament resolution demanding the immediate release of detained former President Mohamed Bazoum.
The foreign ministry presented an official protest letter to EU representative Nicoletta Avella, denouncing what it described as “interference in Niger’s internal affairs.”.
The resolution, which was overwhelmingly adopted by the European Parliament on Thursday, garnered 524 votes in favor. It calls for the release of Bazoum, who has been detained along with his wife since the July 2023 coup that overthrew his presidency. Bazoum’s presidential term was set to expire on April 2, and French MEP Christophe Gomart warned that failing to secure his release before that date would constitute a serious failure.
The junta that took power after the coup has extended its transition period by five years and has thus far ignored previous calls for Bazoum’s release.
The Niger government’s strong stance against the EU’s resolution reflects its resistance to external pressure and its commitment to the current political situation.
In a communiqué, authorities in Niger expressed their “paternalistic and condescending attitude “towards the EU’s demands and emphasized that they “will not accept any directive, wherever it comes from.”.
The government’s response underscores its determination to maintain control over its internal affairs amidst international scrutiny. Regional officials confirmed that the situation remains tense, with the European Union and Niger engaged in a diplomatic standoff over the fate of former President Bazoum. Sources close to the matter suggest that the EU’s resolution could further complicate the already delicate relationship between the two entities.
Further details are expected as the situation unfolds.
The government of Niger has not yet commented on any potential next steps.
