Mali Court Sentences Influencer and Broadcaster to Prison

On Monday, a Malian court sentenced broadcaster Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, known as Ras Bath, and influencer Rokia Doumbia, also known as “Rose, the cost of living,” to seven years in prison for criminal conspiracy and discrediting the state. The court proceedings took place in Bamako, where both had been in custody since March 2023.

They were convicted following a 2023 program by Ras Bath that highlighted economic hardships faced by Malians. The court also imposed three years' suspended sentences on top of their prison terms.

During the trial, which began on August 10, Ras Bath appeared emaciated, raising concerns among the public. Prosecutors labeled him a danger to the junta, claiming he must be kept away from social media and radio.

The junta, led by General Assimi Goita, has imposed severe restrictions on freedoms since taking power after coups in 2020 and 2021, failing to return authority to civilians by the promised March 2024 deadline.