In Burkina Faso, dissent is under siege as the military junta unleashes a brutal crackdown on voices of opposition, silencing critics through intimidation and fear. Recently, exiled activist Maixent Somé quipped on X about his name being on a terrorist watch list, as the security minister released a notorious roster of people classified as threats. This list notably includes not only jihadist leaders like Jafar Dicko but also outspoken journalists and activists such as Newton Ahmed Barry and Naïm Touré.
Amongst those targeted, many had recently condemned a deadly massacre of civilians by government-aligned militias. Ahmed Barry called the regime led by Ibrahim Traoré “tyrannical” and spoke of the dire choices facing dissenters: exile, imprisonment, or death on the battlefield. Since the coup in 2022, military authorities have systematically quashed the media and political opposition, striking fear into the hearts of those who dare to speak out.
The intimidation extends further with incidents like the arrest of civil society group leader Miphal Ousmane Lankoandé, whose whereabouts remain unknown after being taken by gunmen posing as security forces. Lists that label journalists and activists as terrorists serve as a stark reminder of the lengths the junta will go to suppress freedom of expression. Advocates urge that these names be swiftly removed from such lists, asserting that true democratic values hinge on respecting dissent and safeguarding human rights.
Burkina Faso’s military junta is intensifying its crackdown on dissent, targeting journalists and activists by placing them on a terrorist list. The list, published by the security minister, includes both jihadist leaders and critics of the regime. Recent incidents, such as the arrest of a civil society leader, underscore the oppressive climate that stifles freedom of expression.
The relentless crackdown on dissent in Burkina Faso reveals a disturbing trend wherein military authorities resort to draconian measures against journalists and activists. By classifying these individuals as terrorists, the regime seeks to silence criticism and stifle accountability. It is crucial that authorities cease this oppressive approach and uphold the principles of free expression, protecting the voices that strive to hold power to account in the face of tyranny.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
