Imam Sekou Sidibe was arrested and placed in custody at the Bamako Central Prison on January 24, 2025, by the National Cybercrime Unit. He is facing charges of inciting violence, disturbing public order, and attempting to demoralize troops. His trial is scheduled for April 3, 2025.
The arrest stems from a 45-minute sermon delivered by Imam Sidibe on January 17, 2025, in a Bamako mosque. During the sermon, Imam Sidibe allegedly made inflammatory remarks against military trainers, sparking widespread debate and concern on social media.
Judicial authorities deemed these statements a threat to social cohesion and national stability. The prosecutor emphasized the need to balance freedom of expression with the imperative of maintaining collective security, particularly in the current context of significant security challenges facing Mali.
This case highlights the growing debate surrounding the regulation of religious preaching in Mali. In May 2022, the High Islamic Council of Mali (HCIM) announced plans to introduce legislation regulating preaching and mosque management to prevent hate speech and incitement to violence.
The arrest of Imam Sidibe follows the recent summons of Imams Mahi Ouattara and Abdoulaye Koita by the Anti-Cybercrime Unit for delivering controversial sermons, indicating a growing focus on regulating religious discourse in the country.
MD/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA