Burkina Faso has issued arrest warrants and extradition requests for around 20 people, including exiled journalists, activists, a former minister, and former military officers. They face several terrorism-related charges, such as complicity in terrorist activities, financing of terrorism, and glorification of terrorism. The warrants target high-profile individuals, including Radio France International journalist Newton Ahmed Barry and former foreign minister Djibril Bassolé.
The arrest warrants and extradition requests were issued by the Ouagadougou Court of Appeal, with attorney general Desire Sawadogo stating that 14 arrest warrants with extradition requests had been issued, alongside seven standard warrants. The authorities have also placed international outlets like France 24 under scrutiny, including some of its commentators. This move is part of a broader crackdown on criticism by Burkina Faso's military leadership, which seized power in September 2022.
The public prosecutor's office has reported that more than six cases involving over 45 individuals and legal entities are currently under investigation by the specialised anti-terror judicial unit. The office has also sought Meta's cooperation in identifying the administrators of pages that glorify terrorism, so that legal action can be taken against them. This effort aims to curb the spread of content that promotes terrorism.
Among those targeted is Ivorian influencer Camille Makosso, who has around four million followers on social media and is known for his criticism of Sahel region juntas. Burkina Faso wants legal action taken against him in his country of residence and has expressed hope that Ivory Coast will heed the request in the name of international judicial cooperation.
The charges against the individuals include alleged acts of defamation, undermining the morale of the National Armed Forces, and contempt of public authority. The military leadership has been cracking down on criticism since taking power, and this move appears to be part of a broader effort to silence dissenting voices.
The situation in Burkina Faso has been tense, with the country facing security challenges and criticism from various quarters. The military leadership's efforts to curb criticism and perceived threats to national security have raised concerns about human rights and freedom of expression.
The international community has been watching the developments in Burkina Faso closely, with many expressing concerns about the country's human rights record and the impact of the military leadership's actions on the country's stability and security. The country's relations with neighbouring countries and international partners will likely be affected by these developments.
Key points
- The arrest warrants target high-profile individuals, including journalists and former officials, on terrorism-related charges.
- The authorities have sought Meta's cooperation in identifying administrators of pages that glorify terrorism.
- The military leadership's crackdown on criticism has raised concerns about human rights and freedom of expression.
