Son Of Niger’s Deposed President Bazoum Granted Bail By Military Tribunal

Despite Salem’s release, his parents remain in custody at the presidential residence. A source revealed to AFP that Salem left for Lome, the capital of Togo, arriving there on Monday evening.

The Togolese government confirmed his release and acknowledged the mediation efforts of Togo and Sierra Leone, without disclosing his current location.

Niger has been under military rule since the overthrow of elected President Bazoum, drawing widespread international criticism.

The current military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has expressed intentions for a transition to civilian government, a process estimated to take up to three years.

Togo’s involvement in the mediation process is part of a broader West African initiative to engage with the Nigerien military regime.

Togo Foreign Minister Robert Dussey’s recent visit to Niamey and meetings with Niger’s junta-appointed prime minister highlight these diplomatic efforts.

The new military regime in Niger has distanced itself from traditional European allies, especially France, and has strengthened ties with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both also governed by military juntas.This shift coincided with the withdrawal of the last French troops from Niger in December.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso continue to face jihadist violence, particularly in the Tri-border area. The political upheaval has intensified economic and humanitarian challenges in one of the world’s poorest countries, with ECOWAS imposing strict economic and financial sanctions following Bazoum’s ouster.

However, some neighboring countries, like Togo and Benin, are adopting a more conciliatory approach towards Niger’s new authorities. For example, Benin recently resumed trade through the port of Cotonou with Niger, lifting a five-month suspension.

Niger remains suspended from ECOWAS, with the regional body demanding the release of Bazoum and his reinstatement as conditions for sanction relief.

The political landscape in Niger remains unstable, with several former officials of the ousted government arrested or in exile, including former energy minister Ibrahim Yacoubou, who was apprehended last week.