Niger military tribunal frees son of ousted leader Mohamed Bazoum

The military tribunal in the Republic of Niger has granted the son of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum provisional freedom from house arrest in the capital, Niamey.

This was disclosed in a statement by the tribunal on Monday with no reference to Mr. Bazoum and his family members.

Salem Mohamed Bazoum, the 23-year-old son of the deposed leader, has been in detention at the presidential residence with his parents since July last year.

The military takeover, which was widely critisised, led to sanctions from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and triggered calls for Bazoum’s release and a return to democratic rule by the international community.

Last month, the ECOWAS Court of Justice concluded that the family’s arrest was unjustified and ordered the release of Bazoum.

According to the lawyers, the court, whose decisions cannot be appealed, has given the junta one month to clarify how it will carry out the order.

Bazoum and his son were indicted after the July 26 coup.

His son, Salem, was specifically charged with conspiracy with the aim of undermining the authority or security of the state.

Reports by Mr. Bazoum’s party members and relatives say the health condition of the family members has deteriorated due to a lack of access to running water and electricity.