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May 10, 2025 – Niger –
Three radio journalists have been arrested by military authorities in Niger following their reports on a growing diplomatic rift between Niger’s ruling junta and its international allies, specifically Russia and Turkey. The arrests have sparked widespread condemnation from press freedom advocates and civil society organizations, who argue that the detentions are a blatant attempt to suppress media independence and control public discourse.
The journalists, working for Radio Anfani, a private media outlet based in Niamey, were reportedly detained by the country’s General Directorate of External Security. Their arrest came shortly after their station broadcasted reports that highlighted tensions between Niger’s transitional authorities and foreign partners over military and economic cooperation. These reports, which allegedly revealed internal disagreements and strained relations, appear to have triggered the regime’s ire.
Niger’s military-led government, which took power in a July 2023 coup, has been criticized for increasingly restricting freedoms, including press freedom. The junta has accused the detained journalists of disseminating false information and threatening national security — charges frequently levied by authoritarian regimes to stifle dissent.
The arrests have been strongly condemned by local and international organizations. Niger’s Press House and multiple human rights groups have demanded the immediate release of the journalists and called for the protection of media professionals in the country. Critics argue that the military regime is attempting to eliminate all critical voices to maintain a tightly controlled narrative during its transitional period.
This latest crackdown adds to growing concerns about freedom of expression in Niger, where several journalists and civil society actors have faced threats, harassment, or arbitrary detention since the military takeover. The junta’s increasing intolerance toward media scrutiny has raised alarm bells about its commitment to a genuine democratic transition.
Observers warn that such repressive actions may further isolate Niger diplomatically, especially if it continues to alienate international partners and silence local voices. The fate of the detained journalists remains uncertain as legal proceedings have yet to begin, but pressure is mounting for their unconditional release and the restoration of fundamental freedoms.
Reference –
https://www.barrons.com/news/three-radio-journalists-arrested-in-niger-329dc908
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1310456-three-radio-journalists-arrested-in-niger
