Emmanuel Ochayi
Niger’s detained President Mohamed Bazoum, after being removed by his guard, underwent a medical examination on Saturday, causing concerns about his well-being, according to close sources.
A spokesperson from his circle informed AFP that the President had a medical visit on the day, and the doctor also brought provisions for Bazoum, as well as his wife and son, who are also being held in custody alongside him.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe source mentioned, “He’s fine, given the situation.”
Worries have been growing about the health conditions and confinement of Bazoum, his spouse, and their 20-year-old child since the military takeover on July 26th.
READ ALSO: Niger Coup Leaders Threaten To Kill Bazoum Amidst Planned Military Intervention
International concerns about Bazoum’s situation have been voiced by entities including ECOWAS, the European Union, and the African Union.
Volker Turk, the UN’s human rights chief, expressed apprehension that Bazoum’s detention conditions might be breaching international human rights norms by being inhumane and degrading.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed disappointment at the military’s refusal to release Bazoum’s family as a gesture of goodwill.
Human Rights Watch reported that Bazoum described his treatment, along with his family’s, as “inhuman and cruel.” The organization had conversed with the 63-year-old leader earlier that week.
