More than 40 Burkinabè journalists, representing both public and private media outlets, have recently completed a military training program. The ruling junta describes this initiative as a “patriotic immersion,” which is now slated to become an annual event in Burkina Faso. This development is part of broader efforts in the nation, often highlighted in Burkina government news.
While a similar program was made compulsory last year for baccalaureate students, reflecting the country’s ongoing conflict against jihadist groups, this new directive for journalists is causing considerable unease among press freedom advocates. Their concerns are heightened by prior instances where Burkinabè journalists were forcibly conscripted for combat, and the national press operates under intense governmental pressure. The unresolved case of Serge Oulon, who remains detained two years after his abduction in Ouagadougou, serves as a stark reminder of this challenging environment for media professionals.
The Ministry of Security spearheaded this training, which took place over one week at the Police Academy in Pabré, approximately twenty kilometers from Ouagadougou. Footage broadcast on national television depicted Pingdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo, the Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, addressing the journalists. Dressed in military fatigues and holding rifles, he posed the question: “Will you be patriotic and professional journalists?” The journalists, standing at attention, collectively affirmed: “Affirmative!” The Minister further elaborated on his vision, stating: “A professional journalist lacking patriotism poses a threat. A professional and patriotic journalist who is not actively engaged is akin to a passive observer during a period where the most significant chapters of their country’s history are being written.” This message resonates across Ouaga latest news discussions.
Lassina Traoré, the Director General of the Police Academy, articulated the program’s objective: to “impregnate [journalists] with the operational realities and core values that guide our defense and security forces daily.” This perspective highlights the government’s aim to align media reporting with military objectives, a key point in Faso news today.
Despite the official designation of this exercise as a “patriotic immersion,” it continues to alarm those dedicated to safeguarding press freedom. Sadibou Marong from the NGO Reporters Without Borders (RSF) voiced strong opposition, emphasizing: “Journalists are not soldiers and must not be transformed into instruments of the war effort, clad in military uniforms and armed.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing debate surrounding media independence in Burkina Faso.
