Niger's president Bazoum breaks silence, vows to safeguard democracy

<h2>In the wake of a military coup in the Republic of Niger, the ejected President Mohamed Bazoum has assured the safety of democracy.</h2>, <p>Taking to to X, formerly known as Twitter, the president broke his silence after hours of being reportedly detained by the military.</p>, <span>Mouhamed Bazoum</span>, <h2>What is going on in Niger?</h2>, <p>The coup, which took place on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, marked the seventh such incident in West and Central Africa since 2020, raising concerns about regional stability.</p>, <p>Taking to to X, formerly known as Twitter, the president broke his silence after a day of being reportedly detained by the military. It is however unnclear if the president tweeted, or 'Xed' while in military custody.</p>, <p>Addressing the nation late on Wednesday, military personnel announced the removal of President Bazoum from office and the suspension of all republic institutions.</p>, <p>The coup further intensified after members of the presidential guard barricaded the presidential palace in the capital, Niamey, preventing Bazoum from leaving.</p>, <p>The situation garnered significant regional and international attention, given Niger's crucial role as a key ally for Western powers engaged in combating insurgency in the Sahel region.</p>, <p>As of Thursday morning, July 27, President Bazoum remained confined within the presidential palace, according to Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou in an interview with French broadcaster France 24.</p>, <p>However, the minister's whereabouts were unclear, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the unfolding events.</p>, <p>In response to the coup, Foreign Minister Massoudou took to X, urging "all democrats and patriots" to join forces and thwart the military's attempt to seize power.</p>, <p>Meanwhile, the capital city, Niamey, woke up to closed borders and a nationwide curfew imposed by the military, keeping the situation tense.</p>, <p>The situation has raised questions about who is currently in command, as the presidential guard is led by Gener