Title: Former Niger President and Family Suffer Inhumane Conditions Under Military Captors
In an alarming turn of events, the overthrown president of Niger, along with his family, is reportedly enduring inhumane conditions at the hands of their military captors. The situation has sparked international concern, as the family faces deteriorating health conditions, limited access to basic necessities, and a denial of diplomatic efforts to mediate their release.
The military has taken extreme measures to tighten their grip on power, including cutting off electricity to the presidential residence where the family is being held. As a result, they have been left without power, causing them to rapidly lose weight while the food inside their fridge rots away. Reports suggest that the family has lost approximately 5kg each, with their son’s weight dropping as much as 10kg.
Zazia Bazoum, the daughter of the former president, has revealed the challenging circumstances her family is enduring. She maintains near-daily phone contact with her loved ones and describes their situation as very difficult. The family is forced to live without clean water and relies on meager supplies of rice and pasta as their main source of sustenance. Unfortunately, their gas oven is also on the brink of running out of fuel.
Despite the outcry from regional and international organizations, such as the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) and the African Union, the military junta shows no intention of releasing Bazoum and his family. Their refusal to engage in diplomatic efforts or allow the president’s doctor to enter the premises of the presidential palace adds to the concern for Bazoum’s health.
The United States and United Nations have expressed their apprehension regarding the well-being of the former president. However, the military leaders have rejected all calls for mediation and continue to subject Bazoum to psychological pressure and torturous tactics in an attempt to force his resignation.
Another critical development in the region is Nigeria’s decision to cut off electricity supply to Niger as a means to pressure the military into taking action. However, the effects of this tactic have only exacerbated the dire living conditions faced by the captive family.
In light of this distressing situation, Bazoum’s daughter fears that the junta’s intention is to maintain control over the country and prevent her father’s support from rallying. She doubts the military will release him anytime soon, underscoring the significance of international pressure to secure the family’s well-being and the restoration of democracy in Niger.
As the world continues to witness the suffering of the overthrown Nigerien leader and his family, urgent action is needed to address their inhumane treatment, provide them with essential resources, and ensure their prompt release from captivity.
