On Wednesday, the UN chief expressed concern in a statement following reports that the president has no access to water, food and medicine.

Guterres reiterated his concern for the health and safety of Bazoum and his family, and demanded again his immediate and unconditional release and reinstatement as head of State.

The United Nations also rejected the arrest of several members of the Government, while demanding “strict compliance with Niger’s international human rights obligations.”

Bazoum has been held captive at his residence since the military coup on July 26, and several reports from his party described the conditions of his isolation as cruel and inhumane.

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