A court in Mali has sentenced prominent broadcaster and social media influencer Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, popularly known as Ras Bath, and campaigner Rokia Doumbia, also known online as “Rose, the Cost of Living,” to seven years in prison for criticising the country’s military government.
The Bamako Court of Appeal convicted the two on charges including criminal conspiracy and discrediting the state. They were also given an additional three-year suspended sentence.
Both had been detained since March 2023 following a programme focused on the economic difficulties facing ordinary Malians.
Ras Bath’s appearance in court reportedly shocked many supporters, with the broadcaster appearing visibly weak after years in detention. Prosecutors described him as a threat to the ruling junta and argued that he should be kept away from social media and radio broadcasting.
His lawyers rejected the allegations and defended their client against the accusations.
The latest convictions come amid growing restrictions on political and media freedoms in Mali since the military seized power following coups in 2020 and 2021.
Under military leader General Assimi Goita, the junta has faced criticism for failing to return the country to civilian rule as previously promised. Political parties have also faced restrictions, while critics of the government have increasingly been targeted through legal and administrative measures.
Mali has also continued to face a severe security crisis, with attacks linked to jihadist groups, criminal gangs and armed separatists affecting parts of the country.
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