Actus. The Burkinabè authorities have ordered the closure of Ouagadougou’s prominent Sunni Grand Mosque. This decision follows significant gatherings of worshippers protesting the detention of an influential imam who has been critical of the military government.
Ouagadougou mosque closure: “until further notice”
Burkina Faso’s military administration has decreed the closure of the Sunni Grand Mosque in Ouagadougou, stating it will remain shut “until further notice.” The government cited “risks of public disorder” as the reason. This action by the capital region’s governor comes after days of escalating tensions following the arrest of Sunni imam and preacher Mohamad Ishaq Kindo.
Protests erupt, numerous arrests made
Since the imam’s apprehension on Tuesday, a significant number of devotees had gathered near the mosque, demanding his immediate release. Security forces intervened to disperse these demonstrators. According to accounts, approximately one hundred of the imam’s supporters were taken into custody and subsequently transferred to a Republican Security Companies camp. There, they are reportedly undergoing a period of “civic and citizenship training.” Videos circulating on social media platforms depict individuals in military attire engaging in physical exercises and prayers under military supervision.
Imam’s criticism of proposed legislation
Mohamad Ishaq Kindo had recently voiced strong opposition to a proposed bill designed to impose stricter regulations on religious freedoms within Burkina Faso. His arrest occurs amidst a broader crackdown by the military government led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power following a coup d’état in September 2022.