Niger’s Transitional Government announced on Tuesday that it had released 49 individuals, including former government ministers, military officers, and political figures, in line with recommendations from a national conference held in February. However, deposed former President Mohamed Bazoum remains in detention.
The move follows directives from General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military government leader who seized power in a coup on July 26, 2023. According to a government statement on national television, the release aligns with the conclusions of the National Conference, which gathered political and civil society representatives to discuss the country’s future.
Among those freed are Mahamane Sani Issoufou, a former minister of petroleum and son of ex-President Mahamadou Issoufou, and Kalla Moutari, former defence minister, and Ahmed Djidoud, former finance minister. Foumakoye Gado, president of the PNDS and the former ruling party, was also released. The list includes a diplomat, a journalist, and military officers previously accused of involvement in a failed coup attempt in 2010.
