Niger’s president locked inside palace by security guards
According to security sources, President Mohamed Bazoum of Niger is currently being held by the presidential guards inside the presidential palace in the capital. Military vehicles have surrounded the palace since Wednesday morning, creating a blockade.
This situation bears a resemblance to previous military takeovers that have occurred in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso since 2020.
“The movements have the semblance of four military takeovers that have hit neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso since 2020,” stated the security sources.
Not only has the palace been blocked off, but nearby ministries have also been inaccessible due to security measures. Staff within the palace have been prevented from entering their offices and conducting their normal duties, as reported by security sources.
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On the other hand, the rest of Niamey, the capital city, appears to be relatively calm. Morning traffic was observed on the roads, and full internet access was available, according to a reporter from Reuters.
Recent coups in Mali and Burkina Faso have been partially motivated by frustrations concerning the authorities’ inability to tackle the Islamist insurgency that has been affecting the Sahel region, including Niger.
It is worth noting that there was a failed coup attempt in Niger in March 2021, in which a military unit tried to seize the presidential palace just days before President Bazoum’s inauguration.
Reflecting on another recent case, in 2021, Guinean special forces arrested President Alpha Conde and implemented a nationwide curfew “until further notice.” Additionally, military personnel replaced governors across the country.
“We have decided, after having taken the president, to dissolve the constitution,” declared a uniformed officer accompanied by armed soldiers, as seen in a video sent to AFP.
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