The Sahel Alliance has issued a strong call for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum of the Republic of Niger, who is currently under detention by the military junta that has attempted to seize power in the country.
The appeal was made by the German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Svenja Schulze, who also serves as the President of the General Assembly of the Sahel Alliance.
Speaking on behalf of the Sahel Alliance, Minister Schulze emphasized the paramount importance of peace, human rights, and institutional stability in driving socio-economic development.
READ ALSO: Army General makes himself new leader of Niger after coup
They are not in support
The Alliance categorically condemned the unconstitutional takeover of power from democratically elected state institutions and the unlawful detention of President Bazoum and his family.
The German Minister expressed deep concern over the implications of this crisis, which exacerbates the already complex development challenges faced by Niger and the entire Sahel region.
As a result of the crisis, many members of the Sahel Alliance have suspended their direct financial and technical development assistance to the Nigerien government.
Sahel Alliance suspended their assistance to Niger
Minister Schulze highlighted the focus on a people-centered approach to support vulnerable populations and underscored the need to ensure unhindered humanitarian aid, in adherence to humanitarian principles.
He echoed the sentiment that the crisis in Niger requires collective efforts from national, regional, and international stakeholders to seek resolution and simultaneously foster the development of the Sahel region.
This call by the Sahel Alliance aligns with the outcome of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Second Extraordinary Summit held on August 10, 2023.
The Alliance appeals to all parties to work collaboratively towards resolving the crisis and contributing to the progress of Niger and the broader Sahel area.
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Tinubu’s planned military intervention at variance with Nigeria’s constitution? Facts emerge
Meanwhile, in recent days, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has come under scrutiny for his stance on the ongoing crisis in neighboring Niger.
Tinubu’s threat to use military force to reverse the coup has sparked both local and regional debates, with concerns raised about the potential consequences of such an action.
Amidst this backdrop, there’s growing emphasis on the constitutional framework that governs such decisions.
