Mali: Malian journalist Seydou Oumar Traoré was arrested on May 26 for criticizing Guinea’s transitional president, Gen. Mamady Doumbouya, highlighting a disturbing pattern of imprisoning Malian critics of regional military governments. Traoré, who had recently returned from an official trip to Kidal with the Malian Minister of Defense’s delegation, stated in a widely shared social media video that Doumbouya had “betrayed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) by working with Western nations to establish terrorist bases in Guinea.” His trial is set to commence on July 10, as reported by West Africa Democracy Radio. He has since issued an apology to Doumbouya. Additionally, the enactment of a new law forbids opposition political meetings, speeches, and organizations.
- Lord, we pray for justice and freedom of expression in Mali and the broader region. We lift up Seydou Oumar Traoré and all those who face persecution for speaking out against injustice. May their voices be heard, and may they find protection in times of trial (The Holy Bible, Micah 6:8).
- Lord, we pray for political stability in Mali and surrounding nations, as well as a commitment to respect human rights and the rights of opposition voices. May leaders understand the importance of dialogue and freedom in fostering peace and progress (The Holy Bible, Psalm 33:5).
News Source: Africa Defense Forum
Image Source: Canva
