Niger's government released around 50 detainees, including former ministers and soldiers, but ousted President Bazoum remains in detention. Junta leader Tiani stressed forgiveness and reconciliation while maintaining justice.

Niger's government has released approximately 50 individuals, including several ministers who had been detained since the military took control in July 2023. Among those freed are former ministers, a diplomat, a journalist, and soldiers who had been accused of attempting a coup in 2010. However, the ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum remains in detention.

The government's general secretariat stated that the releases were in line with the recommendations of the National Forum for Reconstruction, as shared in a statement broadcast on public television.

Those released include Mahamane Sani Issoufou, former oil minister and the son of ex-President Mahamadou Issoufou, who served as president for a decade from 2011. Other individuals freed include former defence minister Kalla Moutari, former finance minister Ahmat Jidoud, and former energy minister Ibrahim Yacoubou.

In addition, the president of the PNDS (the former ruling party), Foumakoye Gado, and journalist Ousmane Toudou are among the freed individuals. Alat Mogaskia, a former ambassador to Nigeria, is also included in this group.

Charges remain pending against former President Mohamed Bazoum, whose immunity was lifted without a trial date being set. Additionally, soldiers who had been previously convicted of attempting coups or committing acts that endangered state security were also released. Among them were General Salou Souleymane, former chief of staff, and three other officers who had been sentenced in 2018 to up to 15 years in prison for their role in a failed 2015 coup attempt against President Issoufou.

A national conference held in February strengthened the position of the ruling junta, which granted junta leader Tiani the authority to remain in power in Niger for the next five years.

Following his inauguration as president, Tiani reiterated his commitment to fostering forgiveness and reconciliation among the people of Niger. He emphasized that the call for forgiveness and reconciliation would not come at the expense of the legitimate aspirations of the Nigerien people for justice.