The July 2023 military coup in Niger has led to significant human rights violations, including the arbitrary detention of political figures and widespread repression of dissent. Freedom of the press and civil society has been severely compromised, with the introduction of oppressive laws silencing critics. The international community is called to hold Nigerien authorities accountable for these abuses.
On July 26, 2023, Niger experienced a military coup that ousted its elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. The National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) seized power, leading to the suspension of the constitution and the dissolution of key institutions. The coup was justified by claims of security deterioration and economic management issues; however, it has resulted in severe human rights violations and widespread repression against dissenters.
Following the coup, the military regime initiated a campaign of arbitrary arrests targeting political figures, including former President Bazoum and his family, who have faced house arrest with limited access to medical care and legal representation. The military has disregarded court orders for their release, and former government officials have been detained on politically motivated charges, reinforcing a culture of impunity and fear.
Freedom of the press has drastically diminished in Niger as the military authorities suspended major international media outlets, resulting in a chilling effect on journalism. Journalists have faced arrests and intimidation for reporting on government actions, while the Press House, which advocates for media freedom, has also been shut down. The media landscape has become increasingly dangerous, limiting citizens’ access to vital information and enabling unchecked government abuses.
Civil society organizations and human rights defenders have been primary targets of the military regime, often categorized as threats to national security. Activists like Hadiza and Samira Sabou have been detained for online criticism of the government, reflective of the broader crackdown on freedoms of expression and assembly. Protests against the military regime have been violently suppressed, with the right to peaceful assembly effectively eliminated.
The June 2024 amendment to the cybercrime law has further undermined freedoms in Niger, criminalizing online criticism and imposing harsh penalties on dissent. The vague legal language enables the authorities to silence various voices, resulting in widespread self-censorship among citizens. Additionally, many fear repercussions for expressing their opinions publicly, causing significant barriers to constructive dialogue and debate.
Eighteen months post-coup, Niger’s situation remains dire with no constitutional restoration in sight. Amnesty International has issued a call to action, urging the regime to release all arbitrarily detained individuals, respect the legal rights of defendants, and amend oppressive laws affecting civil liberties. The international community is encouraged to hold the Nigerien authorities accountable, ensuring that human rights are upheld amidst political instability. The citizens of Niger deserve a government that adheres to their rights rather than one that suppresses them through fear.
The article highlights the alarming state of human rights and civil liberties in Niger following the military coup in July 2023. The military authorities have engaged in widespread repression, including arbitrary detentions, a crackdown on the media, and legislation targeting dissent. The international community is urged to advocate for justice and the restoration of rights in Niger, emphasizing the need for a government that respects its citizens’ freedoms rather than oppresses them.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
