The junta led by Ibrahim Traoré has imposed a three-month suspension on two Muslim organisations, citing public order concerns and failure to adhere to their statutory missions.

According to two decrees issued on Tuesday, June 9, the Ministry of Territorial Administration announced the suspension of the Coordination of Young Muslims of Burkina Faso for “disturbing public order” and the association As Salam for “activities not in line with its purpose”.

Tensions rise over 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 criticised a draft law aimed at tightening regulations on religious freedom in a country where Muslims make up about 60% of the population.

Since his arrest on May 26, his place of detention has not been officially disclosed. Several of his supporters have also been taken into custody after protests demanding his release.

Increasingly restrictive policies

Since coming to power in September 2022 through a coup, Ibrahim Traoré has tightened control over critical voices.

Authorities justify this firm stance by the need to maintain stability in the face of the jihadist threat that has plagued Burkina Faso for over a decade.

Over 900 associations targeted in recent months

Between April and May, the authorities had already suspended 811 associations and dissolved 118 others, citing non-compliance with administrative obligations.

These moves fuel concerns among observers about the state of public liberties in this Sahelian country grappling with a severe security crisis.