France, Jan. 28 -- Niger's president Mohamed Bazoum has spent 550 days as a hostage of the military junta in the capital, Niamey. His lawyers say that his detention is setting a dangerous precedent and have launched a global campaign to have him released.
World leaders have joined the call for his release and many have signed a special petition to have him released whichhas now reached Washington.
The campaign has also created awebsitededicated to ensuring Mohamed Bazoum is not forgotten.
"His unjust detention is a call to action - for democracy, justice, and the principles he represents. Together, we stand with President Bazoum and demand his freedom," the petition reads.
The American human rights lawyer and prosecutorReed Brodyis one ...