In Mali, a close friend of Prime Minister Jorgel Maiga was sentenced to one year in prison

A close friend of the Prime Minister of Mali, Choguel Kokalla Maïga, He was sentenced to one year in prison on July 8 after signing a document openly criticizing the military junta. strength. Boubacar Traoré was detained on May 28 after he issued a press release strongly opposing the military’s continued hold on to power for a few more years.

“Disturbing public order”

II East The document was signed by members of the 5 June Movement – Rally of Patriotic Forces (M5-RFP), a faction that remains loyal to the prime minister. this The prime minister’s broken relationship with the military that appointed him has left him with little ability to act. He endorsed the contents of the incriminating press release. head governmental.

The Anti-Cybercrime Centre of the Bamako Court condemned Boubacar Traoré for “damaging the credibility of the State” and “spreading false statements that could disrupt national order.” this He is the latest person to be feared, arrested or sentenced for criticizing the military regime, under which opposition speech has become rare but suppressed. this National unity bans and repressive measures.

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Ten opponents jailed On June 24, he was charged with “conspiracy against legal authorities” after calling for the return of civilians. Australia strength.

Former Attorney General, Muhammad Ali BathiliHe was arrested at the same time as them and released shortly afterwards. But he was arrested again on July 5 and place We learned from prosecutors, according to the arrest warrant.

The military junta, which has ruled Mali since two coups in 2020 and 2021, issued a decree in June 2022 requiring the military to give up control. strength It was planned to be provided to civilians at the end of March 2024, after the presidential election in February of the same year. The military later announced the postponement of the presidential election date. always unknown.

(AFP report)