A Malian court has sentenced prominent broadcaster Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, known as Ras Bath, and influencer Rokia Doumbia to seven years in prison for criticising the military government.
The pair were convicted of criminal conspiracy and “discrediting the state” at a court in Bamako on Monday.
Long detention
Both have been in custody since March 2023 after Ras Bath hosted a programme discussing the economic difficulties facing ordinary Malians.
They were also handed three-year suspended sentences on top of their seven-year prison terms.
Junta criticism
Ras Bath is known for his outspoken criticism of Mali’s political and social problems and has a large following, particularly among young people.
His lawyers rejected the accusations against him and Doumbia. They have not yet decided whether to appeal.
Pressure on dissent
The sentences are the latest against critics of Mali’s military junta, which seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021.
Under General Assimi Goita, authorities have imposed restrictions on political activity and media freedoms while delaying a promised return to civilian rule.
