U.S. President Joe Biden is now demanding the immediate release of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum. This is the first time that POTUS made remarks about the ongoing chaos in Niger after the alarming military coup.
POTUS Joe Biden Demands Nigerien President Bazoum's Immediate Release
Democratic presidential candidate, former Vice President Joe Biden speaks at the Iowa Federation Labor Convention on August 21, 2019 in Altoona, Iowa. Candidates had 10 minutes each to address union members during the convention.
According to CNN Politics' latest report, Biden wrote a statement commemorating Niger's Independence Day.
In his official letter, the American leader said that he wants Bazoum to be immediately released by the military leaders.
VOA reported that coup leaders put the Nigerien president under a house rest on July 26.
As of writing, reports stated that Mohamed is still detained at the presidential palace along with his wife Hadiza and son Salem.
Since the situation in Niger is getting worse, Biden decided to finally get involved.
"The Nigerien people have the right to choose their leaders. They have expressed their will through free and fair elections - and that must be respected," said POTUS.
He promised that the United States will stand with the people of Niger as the West African country's democracy experiences grave challenges.
Biden explained that standing up for constitutional justice, order, and the right of peaceful assembly, as well as defending fundamental democratic values, are all important to the relationship of the U.S. with Niger.
"I call for President Bazoum and his family to be immediately released, and for the preservation of Niger's hard-earned democracy," said Biden.
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US Marines to Guard US Embassy in Niger
Supporters of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum gather to show their support for him in Niamey on July 26, 2023. An attempted coup was underway on July 26, 2023 in the fragile state of Niger, where members of the Presidential Guard detained President Mohamed Bazoum, triggering a standoff with the army, sources said.
Recently, the U.S. Department of State ordered staff of the U.S. Embassy in Niger to temporarily evacuate with their families.
But, the U.S. embassy said that marines assigned to guard it will still remain on duty despite the partial evacuation.
Via Military.Com, Pentagon's top spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said that they are still observing the fluid and evolving situation in Niger.
He added that they will continue focusing on a diplomatic solution for the ongoing chaos in the West African country.
Aside from this, Ryder also said that U.S. troops will stay in Niger as tensions in the country intensify.
As of writing, the American soldiers stationed in Niger are tasked to conduct drone surveillance, as well as counter-extremism operations.
Related Article: Niger: US Orders Partial Embassy Evacuation After Coup Leaders Refused To Surrender
