President Ruto condemns Niger coup, offers to mediate

President William Ruto has joined other global leaders in condemning the ongoing coup in Niger following Wednesday reports that President Mohamed Bazoum's Presidential Guards are holding him captive and attempting to seize power by force.

In a statement on Friday, President Ruto noted that the coup, which he insisted is unconstitutional, was subverting the democratic gains made by African nations over the years.

"Kenya joins the rest of the world to condemn, in the strongest terms, this unconstitutional act that subverts democracy through a coup-de-tat and calls for the immediate release of President Bazoum who is reportedly seized by members of the Presidential Guard," said Ruto.

"Throughout our continental history, we have strived tirelessly to nurture the principles of democracy. This fundamental norm is crystallized in article 4P of the Constitutive Act of the Africa Union which unequivocally condemns and rejects any unconstitutional change of government."

President Ruto similarly urged all parties involved to find an amicable way to address their ongoing tiff; one that will not jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of Niger residents.

"We call for the swift restoration of constitutional rule ensuring protection of the population and a return to full civilian authority while upholding utmost respect for the country's institutions," he said.

"In this moment of strife, we implore all parties to engage in constructive discourse to restore peace in this fraternal nation which has steadfastly stood as a bulwark against terrorism and its agents in the Sahel region."

While noting that the resurgence of military coups is an issue deserving of international attention and condemnation, Ruto said that Kenya is willing to mediate in the dispute should the Africa Union allow it.

"Let us stand together as one to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, liberty and the progress we have achieved. We must remain vigilant guarding against any slide back into dark days that threaten the hard-fought gains in democracy," he said.

"Kenya is willing to assist in resolving the conflict under the auspice of the Africa Union should it be deemed appropriate."