why military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger resort to repression

The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are facing deepening crises of legitimacy, leading to widespread repression, arbitrary detentions, and shrinking civic freedoms. The situation has become increasingly dire for human rights defenders and independent media in the region.

escalating repression as military juntas struggle with legitimacy

Following their rise to power through coups, the juntas in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are now facing growing opposition and a worsening security crisis. According to Alioune Tine, founder of Afrikajom Center, these regimes are trapped in a cycle of repression and instability. ‘’The military governments promised rapid transitions to civilian rule, but instead, they have tightened their grip on power through force,’’ he explains.

Tine highlights that the juntas came to power by justifying their coups with the worsening security situation. However, since their takeover, violence has intensified, with attacks becoming more frequent and deadly. For example, the recent attack in Mansila reportedly resulted in over 100 deaths, further undermining public confidence in the military’s ability to protect civilians.

broken promises and growing discontent

The juntas had pledged to restore democracy quickly, with Ibrahim Traoré, leader of Burkina Faso, initially stating that elections would be held soon to return power to civilians. Yet, no concrete steps have been taken toward this goal. Instead, the regime has resorted to repression, including arbitrary arrests, forced conscription, and crackdowns on dissent.

Tine points out that the situation has deteriorated significantly, particularly for marginalized communities like the Peul. ‘’There is a disturbing pattern of violence against certain ethnic groups, raising serious concerns about human rights violations,’’ he warns.

increasing instability and conflicting narratives

The recent explosion of an artillery shell at the headquarters of Burkina Faso’s state broadcaster, RTB, on June 12, has fueled speculation about internal dissent within the military. While the government attributed the incident to an accident, rumors of mutiny and coup attempts have circulated. Ibrahim Traoré dismissed these claims as ‘’fake news,’’ accusing opponents of spreading misinformation to destabilize the regime.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that over 100 soldiers were killed in recent clashes, adding to the growing suspicions within the military ranks. The situation has prompted international organizations like Amnesty International and the Senegalese Coalition of Human Rights Defenders to call for peaceful protests against the repression of press freedom and civil liberties.

regional repercussions and shifting alliances

Tine also criticizes the juntas for aligning with countries that disregard human rights, such as Russia, further isolating them from regional cooperation. ‘’The ECOWAS is divided between pro-Western and pro-Russian factions, weakening its ability to address the region’s challenges,’’ he argues. This division, he adds, has hindered efforts to resolve the crisis and address pressing issues like youth unemployment and economic instability.

The juntas’ reliance on repression as a tool to maintain power reflects their failure to deliver on their initial promises. Without legitimate governance, the future of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger remains uncertain, with civilians bearing the brunt of the crisis.