Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso Orders Stiff Prison Term for ‘Fake News’

A law adopted on June 21 but still awaiting presidential approval would send writers to jail for up to 10 years’ jail for “demoralizing the defense and security forces of Burkina Faso.”

A fine of up to $3,500 would be imposed for publishing what the government called “fake news information compromising security operations, false information about rights abuses or destruction of property, or images and audio from a “terrorist” attack.”

Africa’s ‘Golden Globes’ to Screen 20 New Films Vying for Coveted Film Prize

This will be the 50th anniversary of the renowned festival known as “FESPACO” – an event along the lines of the “Golden Globes” that draws film industry professionals from around the world. The festival’s stated aim is to “contribute to the expansion and development of African cinema as a means of expression, education and awareness-raising.”

Teammates Of U.S. Green Beret Face Murder Prosecution

More than a year has passed since the death of U.S. Green Beret Logan Melgar in Bamako, Mali. Investigators now believe they have men of interest – two Navy SEALS and two Marine Raiders. The four face charges that include felony murder in the strangulation death of Staff Sgt. Melgar.

Riot Police Break Up ‘Transparency Rally’ in Mali

Several hundred people attended the rally, outside the headquarters of the Democratic Alliance for Peace – the party of the current President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. Some 30 people were hospitalized, according to the protestors, including prominent opposition figure Etienne Fabaka Sissoko who was reportedly in a coma after security forces fired live ammunition at protesters on Saturday.