The term of Mohamed Bazoum has officially come to an end, even as he remains in detention under the ruling military junta in Niger.

The 66-year-old leader was overthrown in a 2023 coup led by Abdourahamane Tiani, just two years after taking office with 55 per cent of the vote.

There has been no indication of a possible release or trial. Despite his removal, Bazoum has refused to step down, with his legal team arguing that his mandate cannot be considered complete as he has been unable to carry out his duties since the coup.
The junta government has already rebuffed a European Parliament resolution demanding the release of ex-President Bazoum. It further warned the EU to stop meddling in Niger’s internal affairs.

The European Union (EU) Parliament recently passed a resolution pushing for the release of Niger’s former President, Mohamed Bazoum, by April 4, the day his constitutional mandate was meant to conclude. The EU resolution said that it “strongly condemns the continued arbitrary detention of democratically elected President Bazoum and his wife.”

The EU further demanded their “immediate and unconditional release,” and also called on the international community to “intensify diplomatic efforts to secure the release of President Bazoum.”