During commemorations marking the 36th anniversary of student Dabo Boukary’s assassination under the regime of Blaise Compaoré, the General Union of Burkinabe Students (Ugeb) criticized the military government’s failure to restore security, despite Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s pre-coup promises.

Shortly after the statement, unidentified armed civilians in civilian clothing conducted what the Ugeb described as forceful and unlawful arrests of students, including the union’s president.

Ugeb suspended for three months under terrorism allegations

Days later, the Ministry of Territorial Administration suspended the Ugeb for three months—renewable—accusing it of “terrorism advocacy.” During this period, the student association is barred from all activities.

The Faso Prosecutor’s Office swiftly announced a judicial investigation, citing the “seriousness” of the allegations. According to the prosecution, the Ugeb’s statements may constitute violations under the Burkinabe penal code, including potential charges of “undermining defense and security forces.”

The prosecutor emphasized that “public advocacy of terrorism” carries penalties of one to ten years imprisonment.