Following the coup in Niger, Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib, has called for the immediate release of the democratically elected president and a return to constitutional order in

the African country. Expressing concern over the destabilizing actions in Niger, Minister Lahbib emphasized the importance of safeguarding democratic progress and stability in the region.

In a show of support, Lahbib conveyed Belgium's backing and expressed gratitude for the president's efforts towards achieving stability and restoring constitutional order in Niger. Meanwhile, the army in Niger appears to have ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and is currently holding him at the presidential palace in Niamey. However, President Bazoum himself asserts that democratic gains in the country remain intact.

Nigerian Foreign Minister Hamoudi Massoudou labeled the events as an attempted coup and reiterated that President Bazoum's regime represents the legitimate authorities. He urged the "recalcitrant officers" to engage in dialogue.

The general staff of the Nigerien armed forces has endorsed the statement made by the military putschists, announcing the end of President Bazoum's regime. In an effort to avoid a deadly confrontation between various troops, the army chief of staff, General Abdou Sidikou Issa, supported the decision of the defence and security forces as conveyed in the press release. Photo by Benhamayemohamed, Wikimedia commons.