Crackdown on Opposition, Media; No Oversight of Military Spending
The military authorities in Niger have tightened their grip on opposition, civil society, and independent media since taking power in a coup one year ago. They have arbitrarily detained former President Mohamed Bazoum and at least 30 officials from the ousted government. Additionally, several journalists have been arrested. Contrary to claims to combat corruption, military authorities have rejected oversight of military spending, prompting concerns by various human rights organizations.
- Authorities have tightened control on opposition, media, and civil society.
- Former President Bazoum has been detained since the 2023 coup.
- Media freedom has been severely restricted in the country.
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the International Federation for Human Rights have called for the immediate release of all politically detained individuals, respect for fundamental freedoms, and transparency in military spending.
Worsening crackdown on press freedom
Since the coup, media freedom in Niger has deteriorated significantly, with threats, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of journalists becoming common. Various media personalities have been arrested and charged in connection with their reporting activities, leading to concerns over the state of press freedom in the country.
- Journalists continue to face threats and arrests since the coup.
- Government actions hamper the right to access information.
- Amendment of cyber-crime law poses a threat to freedom of expression.
Human rights organizations are calling for an end to attacks on journalists and the guarantee of freedom of expression in Niger.
No oversight on military spending
Gen. Abdourahamane Tiani, who took power after the coup, signed an order repealing any control on military spending. Transparency and accountability in military budgeting and expenditure are crucial to address corruption and ensure proper management of public resources. The lack of oversight on military spending raises concerns about corruption and mismanagement within the military.
- Transparency in military budgeting is essential for accountability.
- Niger authorities urged to disclose verifiable financial information on military spending.
The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee the rights to freedom of expression, emphasizing the importance of transparency in military spending for upholding human rights and the rule of law.
The post Niger: Rights in Free Fall a Year After Coup appeared first on Amnesty International.
Source: www.amnesty.org