Burkina Faso’s military government has suspended France 24, a French international news television network. They claim that the network’s report on the jihadist insurgency lacked objectivity and credibility.
The report, aired on June 29, focused on Burkina Faso’s deteriorating security situation due to the ongoing jihadist insurgency. It included interviews with displaced residents and security officials.
The government of Burkina Faso criticized the report, calling it “tendentious” and accusing it of distorting the reality of the situation. They also expressed concern that the report provided a platform for “terrorists” and could jeopardize security forces.
France 24 has refuted the government’s allegations, asserting that the report was objective and based on interviews with various sources. The network expressed deep disappointment over the government’s decision to suspend its broadcasts.
The suspension of France 24 marks an escalation in the crackdown on foreign media in Burkina Faso. In December 2022, the government suspended Radio France Internationale (RFI) for its coverage of the insurgency.
Human rights groups have condemned the crackdown, viewing it as an attempt to limit freedom of expression and silence critical voices.
The suspension of France 24 not only undermines press freedom in Burkina Faso but also reflects the strained relations between the country and France. Formerly a French colony, Burkina Faso and France had enjoyed close ties. However, recent years have seen a deterioration in relations as Burkina Faso increasingly criticizes France’s role in combating the insurgency.
The duration of France 24’s suspension remains uncertain, but it is evident that the Burkina Faso government is determined to control the information flow regarding the insurgency. This development raises concerns about the state of press freedom in the country.
