Moussa Kaka
Nigerien journalist Moussa Kaka has disappeared, sparking concerns about press freedom and human rights in Niger.
Moussa Kaka, a well-known journalist and human rights defender in Niger, has gone missing. He was last seen leaving his office in Niamey on August 31, 2026, at around 7 pm. Kaka's family and colleagues have not heard from him since, and his vehicle is also missing.
Background
The disappearance of Moussa Kaka is particularly concerning given the current climate in Niger. Just a few days before his disappearance, there was an attempted coup in the country, which targeted the presidential palace and several military sites in Niamey. The Nigerien authorities have also been cracking down on journalists and activists, restricting their freedom of expression and assembly.
Previous Arrests
Kaka had previously been arrested on November 3, 2025, along with five other journalists, for allegedly spreading information that could disturb public order. They were released on bail but were later charged under the country's cybercrime law. Some of his colleagues, including Youssouf Seriba, Oumarou Kané, and Ibro Chaibou, were released in July and August 2026.
Calls for Action
The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, a partnership between the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), has called on the Nigerien authorities to take immediate action to locate Kaka and ensure his physical and psychological integrity. The Observatory has also urged the authorities to guarantee freedom of the press and freedom of expression in Niger and to ensure the safety of journalists and human rights defenders.
Mechanisms for Remedy
The Observatory has requested that individuals contact the Nigerien authorities, including the President of the National Council for the Salvation of the Fatherland, the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, and the Ambassador of Niger to the European Union, to demand that they take action to locate Kaka and guarantee his safety. The Observatory has also provided contact information for its emergency line and email address, where individuals can report any actions taken in response to Kaka's disappearance.
The Nigerien authorities must take immediate action to investigate Kaka's disappearance and ensure his safe return. The situation in Niger is increasingly troubling, with a growing crackdown on freedom of expression and assembly. The disappearance of Moussa Kaka is a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists and human rights defenders in the country.
