Biden spoke out: "Immediately release" Niger President United States | Niger | Biden
According to Agence France Presse on August 3rd, US President Biden called for the "immediate release" of Niger's President Mohammad Bazum and "maintenance of Niger's democratic system.".
In a statement released on the occasion of Niger's 63rd anniversary of independence, Biden said, "I call for the immediate release of President Bazum and his family, and to work towards maintaining Niger's hard-earned democratic system."
According to the report, Biden said, "At this critical moment, the United States stands with the people of Niger and respects our long-term partnership. This partnership is rooted in shared democratic values and support for civil leadership and governance."
Bazum, who is 63 years old, was overthrown by a member of his own guard a week ago. The United States, European countries, and the United Nations have all condemned this coup.
Biden said, "The people of Niger have the right to choose their own leaders. They have expressed their will through free and fair elections, which must be respected."
On July 30th, the leaders of the West African Community demanded that the coup leaders release Bazum and restore his power within a week, otherwise they will face all consequences, including military intervention.
According to another report by Agence France Presse, a source from Niger Power Company revealed that due to sanctions, Nigeria has cut off its electricity supply to Niger.
The source said, "Starting from yesterday, Nigeria has stopped supplying us with electricity.".
According to reports, Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 70% of its electricity purchased from neighboring Nigeria.