The Burkinabè authorities have suspended two Muslim associations for a period of three months, citing public order concerns and deviations from their statutory missions. The decision follows a wave of tensions triggered by the arrest of influential Sunni imam Mohamad Ishaq Kindo.
In two separate decrees published on June 9, the Ministry of Territorial Administration announced the suspension of the Coordination of Young Muslims of Burkina Faso for “public order disturbances” and the As Salam association for “activities inconsistent with its stated objectives.”
The imam’s arrest fuels controversy
The crackdown comes less than two weeks after the detention of Imam Kindo, a prominent religious figure in Burkina Faso’s Sunni community. The imam had publicly criticized a draft law aimed at tightening regulations on religious freedom in a country where Muslims constitute approximately 60% of the population.
Since his arrest on May 26, the exact location of his detention remains undisclosed. Several of his supporters have also been detained following protests demanding his release.
Tightening grip on dissent
Since seizing power in a coup in September 2022, Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s military junta has intensified control over dissenting voices. Authorities argue that these measures are essential to maintain stability amid a decade-long jihadist insurgency that has destabilized the region.
Over 900 associations targeted in recent months
Between April and May, authorities suspended 811 associations and dissolved 118 others, primarily for failing to comply with administrative obligations. These actions have raised concerns among observers about the erosion of public freedoms in a Sahelian nation grappling with severe security challenges.