On Wednesday, members of Niger’s presidential guard surrounded the presidential palace in what African organizations are referring to as an attempted coup against the democratically elected leader of the country. The United States confirmed that the rebel soldiers had detained President Mohamed Bazoum.
A tweet from Niger’s presidency account reported that the elite guard unit engaged in what was termed an “anti-Republican demonstration,” making an unsuccessful attempt to garner support from other security forces. The message further reassured that President Bazoum and his family were safe, but also warned that Niger’s army and national guard stood prepared to take action if those involved in the coup attempt did not abandon their efforts.
The situation is being closely monitored as the nation’s stability and democratic governance hang in the balance.