Malian court sentences broadcaster and influencer critical of junta to seven years in jail
A Malian court in Bamako has sentenced prominent broadcaster Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, known as Ras Bath, and influencer Rokia Doumbia, also known as "Rose, the cost of living," to seven years in jail. Both were convicted of criminal conspiracy and discrediting the state. They also received an additional three years suspended. The sentences follow their criticism of Mali's military government, which seized power in 2020 and 2021. Bathily and Doumbia had been in custody since March 2023, after a program by Bathily discussed the economic difficulties faced by ordinary Malians. During the trial, which began on August 10, prosecutors alleged an association between the two, with Ras Bath having previously invited "Rose" onto his show. Lawyers for Ras Bath denied these accusations. The military government, led by General Assimi Goita, has imposed restrictions on freedoms and dissolved political parties, and failed to return power to civilians by March 2024 as promised. Mali has been experiencing a security crisis since 2012 due to jihadist violence and other armed groups.
