Mali’s junta bans media coverage of politics  

This comes after the country’s leadership indefinitely banned all political party activities in the country following growing calls for elections that would restore civilian rule.

The junta cited the need to preserve public order as the reason for the suspension of political activities.

In a release authorized by the High Authority for Communication, it said, “…The Haute Autorite dela Communication calls on all media (radio, TV, written, and online newspapers) to stop any dissemination and publication of the activities of political parties and of the political activities of associations.

The decision has however been fiercely opposed by the Maison de le Press (Press House) which says the order is absurd. The umbrella body for journalists has therefore urged its members to continue with their works, urging them to “stand tall, remain unified and to mobilise to defend the right of citizens to have access to information”.

Meanwhile, Mali’s National Commission for Human Rights has also expressed concern about the decision on Thursday. It warned the junta the decision could prove harmful.

“Instead of calming the social climate, these restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms could potentially stir up trouble and tension, which the country does not need,” it said.