Biden called on the Niger army to quickly release President Bazoum The President of the United States, Joe Biden, called on the soldiers who...

Biden called on the Niger army to quickly release President Bazoum

The President of the United States, Joe Biden, called on the soldiers who staged a coup in Niger to quickly release the elected president of the country, Mohamed Bazoum, and respect the country's democracy.

Biden made this call in a statement to Niger, which is celebrating 63 years since it was abducted by the Europeans, where he demanded the immediate release of President Bazoum and his family.

"During this difficult time, the United States stands with the people of Niger to honor our decades-long relationship rooted in democratic values and support for civil governance."

Bazoum, who is 63 years old, was overthrown by his bodyguards last week in a coup that was condemned by the United States, European countries and the United Nations.

"The people of Niger have the right to choose their leaders," said Biden. "They expressed their opinion through a free and fair election - and that must be respected."

In 2021, Mohamed Bazoum ascended the throne of Niger, after winning the election that became the first civilian to hand over power to civilians peacefully.

He took over the government of the country that has suffered four coups since gaining independence from France in 1960.