In Niger, the current military authorities have dismissed Abdoussalam Mahaman, the Director of the Niamey City Police. Just a few days ago, the police officer had reported cases of rape during the sit-ins organized to protest against the presence of French forces in Niger.
Is this dismissal an attempt to further silence dissenting voices, or is it a coincidence? In Niger, the military authorities, known for their aversion to criticism, have dismissed Abdoussalam Mahaman, the Director of the Niamey City Police. This was done through a decree dated September 11, 2023, signed by General Mohamed Toumba, one of the leaders of the National Council for the Salvation of the Nation (CNSP, which seized power), and “appointing an official from the National Police.”
“We have recorded cases of assault, and even rape, even if it’s unpleasant to say,” Abdoussalam Mahaman had stated through a media release, denouncing cases of assault and rape that occurred during the “Patriotic Vigil” protests. These were demonstrations by people demanding the departure of French forces from Niger, a request made by the military regime that came to power through a coup in late July.
