Coup Leaders Seek Prosecution of Deposed Niger President for 'High Treason'

The military junta that seized power in Niger plans to prosecute deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for "high treason" and undermining state security, potentially facing the death penalty. The junta accuses Bazoum of making false allegations and attempting to derail a peaceful transition. The charges have been condemned by the West African regional bloc ECOWAS, which had demanded Bazoum's release and threatened military intervention. The junta's newly appointed justice minister, a former president of the country's military tribunal, raises concerns about a fair trial. Meanwhile, jihadi violence continues to pose a threat, with recent attacks by groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State.