Mali Junta Bans Media Reporting on Political Activities

Emmanuel EjioforApril 12, 20241 Mins read378

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Mali’s military government has banned media coverage of political activities, deepening its control over public communication.

This directive was announced on Thursday by the nation’s communication authority. The directive also stated that the ban extends to all media platforms, including television, radio, online, and print newspapers.

The media restriction follows a declaration made on Wednesday that suspended all political party activities indefinitely, which the junta said was done to maintain public order.

Mali, which has seen significant political turmoil with two coups since 2020, is also facing severe insurgencies linked to terrorist groups such as al-Qaida and ISIS.

The specifics of the media ban and how it will be implemented remain unclear, particularly regarding reporting on topics indirectly related to politics, such as economic reporting.

Nevertheless, the journalists’ body in Mali, Maison de le Press, has openly rejected the junta’s order, urging journalists to continue their political coverage. The organisation charged journalists to “stand tall, remain unified and to mobilise to defend the right of citizens to have access to information.”

Furthermore, the National Commission for Human Rights in Mali has also voiced its concern, stating that these media constraints could increase tensions rather than promote peace.

“Instead of calming the social climate, these restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms could potentially stir up trouble and tension, which the country does not need,” the commission said.