The trial of 19 individuals accused of participating in a 2024 manifestation that resulted in the death of the Solenzo canton chief began on November 9, 2026, at the Dedougou High Court. The hearing, which took place in Solenzo, is the sole case on the court's docket for this session. The accused face charges of participating in an illegal demonstration, intentional destruction of private property, and murder of the canton chief.
According to reports from the Agence d'information du Burkina, 12 of the 19 accused were present in court on the first day of the trial. The accused are said to have participated in a public manifestation on November 24, 2024, in the Banwa province capital, which turned violent and resulted in the tragic death of the Solenzo canton chief. Eight of the accused took the stand to respond to the court's questions.
During their testimonies, most of the accused denied the charges brought against them. However, two individuals admitted to participating in the manifestation but claimed they did not engage in any destructive behavior or harm the canton chief. They stated that they had left the demonstration before it reached the chief's residence and only learned of his death afterwards.
The trial was adjourned until the next day to allow the remaining accused to testify. The court proceedings are being closely followed by the local community, who are seeking justice for the murdered canton chief. The case has sparked widespread interest and concern about the security situation in the region.
The manifestation that led to the canton chief's death was reportedly organized in response to growing tensions in the area. The authorities have been working to restore calm and maintain order in the region. The trial is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the chief's death and the role of the accused individuals.
The case has also raised concerns about the level of violence and instability in Burkina Faso. The country has been facing security challenges in recent years, with armed groups and bandits operating in various parts of the country. The government has been working to address these challenges and restore security to affected areas.
The trial is ongoing, with the court expected to hear from the remaining accused and consider the evidence presented. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched by the local community and human rights organizations, who are seeking justice and accountability for the murder of the Solenzo canton chief.
Key points
- 12 of 19 accused present at trial for 2024 killing of Solenzo canton chief
- Accused face charges of participating in an illegal demonstration, intentional destruction of private property, and murder
- Trial ongoing, with court to hear from remaining accused and consider evidence presented
