Malian Professor Jailed for Criticizing Military Junta
The charges against Sissoko include defamation and damaging the state’s reputation by distributing fake news, stemming from a book he published in 2023. In the book, titled "Propaganda, Agitation and Harassment – government communication during the transition in Mali," Sissoko accuses the junta of using manipulation and lies to sway public opinion.
AKACHI NOEL 
A prominent Malian Economist and professor, Étienne Fakaba Sissoko, has been sentenced to two years in jail for his criticism of the military junta. Sissoko, a former advisor to President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, was also fined 3 million CFA francs ($4,900; £3,900). He has been in custody since March and plans to appeal the verdict.
The charges against Sissoko include defamation and damaging the state’s reputation by distributing fake news, stemming from a book he published in 2023. In the book, titled "Propaganda, Agitation and Harassment – government communication during the transition in Mali," Sissoko accuses the junta of using manipulation and lies to sway public opinion.
Sissoko's arrest is part of a broader crackdown on critics and political opponents of the military rulers, with several other activists and influencers also being jailed in recent months. The junta has imposed restrictions on political activities and media coverage, sparking concerns about human rights violations and freedom of expression in Mali.
