On Reports of an Attempted Takeover in Niger

The United States is gravely concerned about developments in Niger.  We strongly support the democratically elected President and condemn in the strongest terms any effort to seize power by force and disrupt the constitutional order.  We call for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum and respect for the rule of law and public safety.  We echo the strong condemnation of today’s action by the Economic Community of West African States.  We are monitoring the situation closely and are in communication with the U.S. Embassy in Niamey.