Adama Diarra, known as “Ben le Cerveau,” will remain in prison after Malian courts rejected his request for provisional release. Diarra was initially sentenced in September 2023 for “undermining the credit of the State” after publicly criticizing a potential extension of Mali’s political transition.
His initial two-year sentence, with one year suspended, was reduced on appeal in February 2024. However, his detention was extended due to new charges. Following a hearing the previous week, the court announced its decision on February 24, 2025, denying Diarra’s request for release. The specific reasons for the denial have not been released to the public.
This judicial decision has elicited mixed reactions in Mali. Some believe Diarra’s continued detention is justified given the severity of the accusations, while others view it as an infringement on freedom of expression and an attempt to silence dissenting voices.
MD/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA