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Opposition calls for boycott of Niger elections

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Opposition calls for boycott of Niger elections

Sensing that the incumbent President Muhamadou Issoufou is expected to win a second term, the opposition in Niger is calling for a boycott of run-off election which is due to hold alleging fraud.

Former prime-minister and parliamentary speaker Hama Amadou who is contesting against Issoufou is leading the call.

He was jailed in November on baby-trafficking charges, which he denies‎ and he was flown to Paris last week for medical treatment.

Read also: Niger’s President foils plan to overthrow him

One of the world’s poorest countries, Niger faces a growing jihadist threat.

Reports say the first round of voting in February, which was conducted when Mr Amadou was in prison, was marred by delays and voting had to be extended to the next day in some places.

Mr Issoufou got 48% of the votes while Mr Amadou came second with 17%.

Amadou whose medical condition is unclear and his health reportedly deteriorating in prison has denied allegations leveled against him with his supporters saying his detention is politically motivated.

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