The Autonomous Union of Magistrates of Niger (SAMAN) has launched legal proceedings to contest its recent dissolution by the government, describing the move as “arbitrary” and a “flagrant violation” of international labor conventions.
The ministerial order, issued on August 7 by the Minister of the Interior, formally disbanded the union. SAMAN argues that the decision contravenes Conventions 87 and 98 of the International Labour Organization, which guarantee the right of workers to organize and engage in collective action.
“This dissolution represents an unacceptable attack on the right of magistrates to organize,” the union said in a statement. “It undermines the separation of powers and deals a severe blow to the credibility of institutions.”
SAMAN directly criticised Justice Minister Alio Daouda, accusing him of “personal relentlessness” and attempting to “justify the unjustifiable” in a press briefing on August 8.
The union has called for “increased mobilization” from judicial actors, civil society, and the media to safeguard judicial independence and resist political interference in the courts.
The union’s stance echoes concerns expressed by other professional organisations, civil society groups, and trade unions, all of which have condemned the government’s action as “an attack on union rights and the independence of the judiciary.”
Authorities have defended the dissolution, citing alleged internal dysfunction, breaches of ethics, and conduct deemed incompatible with public service standards.
They also referenced “unrealistic demands” by the union as part of the justification. Observers note that the decision comes amid heightened restrictions on civil liberties following Niger’s July 2023 coup, during which the ruling junta has intensified measures against unions and civil society organisations.
SAMAN has urged broad mobilization to defend the autonomy of the judiciary and prevent any politicization of Nigerien courts. “We call on all actors to stand against attempts to subordinate the judiciary to political influence,” the union said, signalling a protracted legal and political battle ahead.
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