Burkina Faso junta suspends two Muslim groups after arrest of outspoken imam
In a fresh clampdown, Burkina Faso’s military government has suspended two Muslim associations for three months, citing public order concerns and failure to adhere to their statutory missions.
The Ministry of Territorial Administration issued two orders on Tuesday, June 9, suspending the Coordination of Young Muslims of Burkina Faso for ‘disturbing public order’ and the As Salam association for ‘activities inconsistent with its purpose’.
Background of Imam Kindo Case
These measures come less than two weeks after the arrest of Mohamad Ishaq Kindo, a prominent figure in Sunni Islam in Burkina Faso. The imam had publicly opposed a draft law aimed at tightening religious freedom in this country where Muslims account for about 60% of the population. Since his detention on May 26, his whereabouts have not been officially disclosed. Several of his supporters have also been taken into custody following protests demanding his release.
Increasingly Restrictive Policies
Since coming to power in September 2022 after a coup, Ibrahim Traoré has intensified controls over dissenting voices. Authorities argue this crackdown is necessary to maintain stability amid the jihadist threat that has plagued Burkina Faso for over a decade.
Over 900 Associations Targeted in Recent Months
Between April and May, authorities already suspended 811 associations and dissolved 118 others, primarily for failing to meet administrative requirements. These actions have raised concerns among observers about the state of public freedoms in this Sahelian country facing a severe security crisis.
