A year ago, Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a military coup led by General Tiani, who seized control of Niger with army backing. Since then, the military has entrenched its authority by curbing freedoms, suspending political parties, and silencing dissent.
There is no set timeline for restoring civilian rule, and Niger has distanced itself from Western allies while aligning more closely with Russia.
Bazoum and his wife, Hadiza, have been under detention at the presidential residence since October, cut off from the outside world except for regular visits from his doctor. He has no phone and is under constant guard, with his doctor bringing him food and books.
Despite these harsh conditions, Bazoum remains resolute in refusing to resign. A former philosophy professor, he finds solace in reading extensively, from classic authors like Shakespeare and Tolstoy to contemporary figures like Romain Gary. He also reads political texts, including Dominique Moïsi’s “The Triumph of Emotions.”
Even after a bout of malaria weakened him in the spring, Bazoum remains determined. He refuses to step down, despite the recent lifting of his presidential immunity, which could lead to a trial.