In Mali, prominent journalist Youssouf Sissoko has been arrested under the nation's cybercrime laws for publishing an article in 'L'Alternance' that criticized remarks made by Niger's junta leader, President Abdourahamane Tiani. The article disputed Tiani's claims that the presidents of France, Benin, and the Ivory Coast were supporting extremist groups responsible for attacks in Niger's capital. Following the publication, Sissoko was charged with spreading false information and impairing the state's credibility, among other charges.

The arrest was made by the military junta, which has been in power since a coup in 2020, and reflects the increasing clampdown on press freedoms in the country. Sissoko has been placed in pre-trial detention, with a court appearance scheduled for March 9. His arrest has sparked concern among international and local human rights organizations regarding the suppression of dissenting voices and media freedom in Mali.

In response to the journalist's arrest, the Association of Editors from the Private Media (ASSEP) has publicly expressed solidarity with Sissoko, emphasizing the need to protect journalistic freedoms and resist censorship. This incident underscores a troubling trend in Mali, where the military government is increasingly limiting freedom of expression and scrutinizing journalists who challenge government narratives, particularly concerning regional politics and foreign relations.