Burkina Faso’s communications authority has summoned the editor and a journalist from “Observateur Paalga”, a leading local newspaper, over a controversial article on Mali.
The High Council for Communication (CSC) has scheduled the hearing for Thursday, November 28, accusing the publication of violating laws and professional ethics. The council, which includes legal and media experts, claims the article breached journalistic standards.
The piece, titled “Malian Armed Forces: Loads of Generals”, criticized the recent promotion of high-ranking officers within Mali’s government. In October, Mali’s leader elevated himself to a senior military rank, while five influential colonels were “exceptionally” promoted to four-star generals.
This development follows escalating tensions in Mali, where the government recently cut the signal of “Joliba TV News” after it aired criticism of Burkina Faso’s military rulers.
Journalists in the Sahel region face growing challenges, with increased threats to press freedom, according to a September report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
