Burkina Faso junta suspends two Muslim groups after imam’s arrest

A fresh clampdown has taken place in Burkina Faso. The military junta led by Ibrahim Traoré has ordered a three-month suspension of two Muslim associations, citing public order violations and failure to comply with their statutory duties.

Two decrees published on Tuesday, June 9, by the Ministry of Territorial Administration suspend the Coordination of Young Muslims of Burkina Faso for “public order disturbances” and the As Salam association for “activities inconsistent with its purpose.”

Background of Imam Kindo’s arrest

These measures come less than two weeks after the arrest of Mohamad Ishaq Kindo, a leading figure in Burkina Faso’s Sunni Muslim community.

The imam had openly opposed a draft law that would tighten restrictions on religious freedom in a country where Muslims account for roughly 60 percent of the population.

Since his detention on May 26, authorities have not officially revealed his whereabouts. Several of his supporters have also been arrested following protests calling for his release.

An increasingly restrictive approach

Since taking power through a coup in September 2022, Ibrahim Traoré has steadily increased pressure on regime critics.

The government argues that such harsh measures are necessary to maintain stability amid a jihadist insurgency that has plagued Burkina Faso for more than a decade.

Over 900 associations targeted in recent months

Between April and May, authorities suspended 811 associations and dissolved 118 others, mainly for failing to meet administrative requirements.

These actions have raised alarm among observers about the shrinking space for public freedoms in this Sahel nation, which is grappling with a severe security crisis.