President Joe Biden demanded the immediate release of Niger’s elected President Mohamed Bazoum and urged the preservation of the country’s hard-won democracy. The call comes on the 63rd anniversary of Niger’s independence.
President Bazoum was removed from power in a coup by his own guard a week ago. The United States, along with European nations and the United Nations, condemned the coup.
Biden also emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values and supporting civilian-led governance.
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The Nigerien people must be respected
He expressed solidarity with the people of Niger, emphasizing their right to choose their leaders through free and fair elections.
President Bazoum had gained international recognition for winning elections in 2021, which marked Niger’s first peaceful transition of power.
The country has faced previous coups since gaining independence from France in 1960.
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Reactions as Buhari watches Morocco vs France with Biden, others
Reactions in manifold have continued to trail picture of President Muhammadu Buhari watching France vs Morocco game with some world leaders on Wednesday, December 14.
The Nigerian leader, who was in Washington for a visit, was seen in a picture shared by President Joe Biden of the United States on social media.
Biden in a post available on both his verified Twitter and Instagram handles described as “honour” the moment shared with his counterparts from around the world, including the “Prime Minister Akhannouch of Morocco.”