MIDWEEK REPORTER
MASVINGO-The President of the Pan African Parliament, Chief Fortune Charumbira has called upon Niger soldiers who attempted a coup to troop back to the barracks.
Chief Charumbira issued the statement which is in The Midweek’s possession where he implored soldiers to observe the rule of law and not to remove a constitutionally elected Government of President Mohamed Bazoum.
“The President condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the brazen attempt to undermine the sovereign will of the people of Niger by attempting to forcefully overthrow a democratically elected Government. He calls for the immediate and unconditional release of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family and urges the military conspirators to return to the barracks,” said the presidential statement.
Chief Charumbira said PAP stands with the people of Niger during this difficult time as the body is committed to constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
PAP President’s statement follows a coup attempt in Niger where President Bazoum and his family are held hostage since Wednesday.
Niger’s President Bazoum is a key ally in the fight against Islamist militants – was defiant after soldiers announced a coup on Wednesday.
But he has been detained, the army chief has backed military rule, and it isn’t clear who is really in charge.