Mali’s Famous Preacher in Jail for Criticizing the Government

Chouala Bayaya Haidara, a well-known preacher from Mali, was issued an arrest order on Wednesday, December 20, following his meeting with the prosecutor in charge of combating cybercrime. “Destroying the credit of the State and remarks tending to disturb public order” are among the accusations made against the spiritual leader.

In a video shared on social media before to his detention, the preacher stated that he was only protesting the lack of electricity in Bamako. He claimed that it was possible to offer electricity while conducting military operations. Chouala Bayaya Haidara, a member of Mali’s High Islamic Council, has similarly stated his preference for “death or prison rather than remaining silent about the dangers hanging over society.” He denounced the arrests of regime critics, emphasizing that it was difficult to speak with existing authorities without fearing incarceration during the transition.

Indeed, Mali has been experiencing a severe energy crisis since May 2023. Apart from suffering from power interruptions, no one has the right to complain because the government believes a solution to this problem is on its way.