Niger’s military government has announced the release of several high-profile detainees arrested following the 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The decision, which was made public on national television on Tuesday, aligns with the recommendations from the National Consultations for Reform held in February.

Despite the mass release, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum remains in detention.

Among those freed is Mahamane Sani Issoufou, former oil minister and son of ex-president Mahamadou Issoufou, who governed Niger from 2011 to 2021. Other key figures released include former finance minister Ahmed Djidoud, former defense minister Kalla Moutari, former energy minister Ibrahim Yacoubou, journalist Ousmane Toudou, and Alat Mogaskia, Niger’s former ambassador to Nigeria.

Additionally, several military officers previously convicted of attempting coups during the 2010s were granted freedom.

The release of these individuals is seen as a strategic move by the military leadership to ease political tensions and foster national reconciliation amid ongoing regional and international scrutiny.

However, Bazoum’s continued detention remains a point of contention, with both regional bodies and Western governments calling for his release and the restoration of democratic governance in Niger.