Niger’s former ruling party, the Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism (PNDS), revealed on Monday that militants from within the party have initiated efforts to splinter it following the ousting of the president.
Since military officers seized control on July 26th, Mohamed Bazoum has been held in custody within the presidential palace.
Despite substantial international backing for the legitimate government, he has adamantly declined to step aside.
In a letter addressed to its officials, the party conveyed that it is being targeted by a deliberate endeavor to fragment it, fueled by artfully curated speculations circulating on social media and in the media.
The letter acknowledged that the party’s own supporters have been entangled in the orchestrated campaign.
On social media platforms, speculations have arisen implying that Mohamed Bazoum’s predecessor, Mahamadou Issoufou, played a part in the coup.
“Totally false,” stated Issoufou during an interview with Jeune Afrique magazine on August 17th, where he also advocated for the reinstatement of Bazoum to his position.
Following the coup, the letter observed that the party has encountered numerous assaults aimed at undermining its strength.
The assaults encompass restrictions on protests and gatherings, effectively depriving the party of traditional avenues for advocacy to reinstate constitutional order and secure the release of Bazoum and his family, letter said.
On the day of the coup, security forces disbanded a demonstration held by supporters of Bazoum.
The party urged its militants “not to allow yourselves to be… distracted by the lies and rumours”.
“Stay mobilised to fight against the putschists”.