The military-led administration in Burkina Faso has suspended the Union générale des étudiants du Burkina (Ugeb), the country’s largest student organization, for an initial three-month period. The decision, announced by the Ministry of Territorial Administration, cites accusations of “glorifying terrorism” as the justification for this drastic measure.
The suspension occurs amid a broader crackdown on civil society, with nearly a thousand associations dissolved or suspended under a new law regulating freedom of association. This tightening of controls follows the rise of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who assumed power after a coup in September 2022.
Ugeb president detained in overnight raid
The organization reports that a dozen members, including its president Wilfried Bazo, were arrested in a predawn operation at their headquarters in Ouagadougou. Several students were reportedly taken to undisclosed locations. The Ugeb has condemned these actions as “grave violations of fundamental freedoms” and is demanding their immediate release.
Student union condemns democratic backsliding
Days before the suspension, the Ugeb released a statement accusing the military government of systematically violating democratic, union, and political freedoms under the pretext of combating terrorism. The organization also criticized the regime’s “clear inability” to restore security in the face of escalating jihadist violence gripping much of the country.
Judicial inquiry launched against student leaders
The prosecutor’s office announced the opening of a judicial investigation targeting the Ugeb’s “writings and statements.” Independent observers warn that this move is part of a systematic pattern of repression targeting freedom of association and expression. Critics argue that silencing students will not address the underlying security and governance crises plaguing Burkina Faso.
