Burkina Faso’s main student union suspended, leader detained

Ouagadougou — The military-led government in Burkina Faso has suspended the country’s largest student organization, the Union générale des étudiants du Burkina (Ugeb), for three months—renewable. The decision, announced by the Ministry of Territorial Administration, cites allegations of “apologizing for terrorism.”

This move comes amid a broader crackdown under the regime of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in September 2022. In recent weeks, nearly a thousand associations have been dissolved or suspended under a new law regulating freedom of association.

Student leader detained in overnight raids

The Ugeb reports that a dozen members, including its president, Wilfried Bazo, were arrested in overnight raids on their Ouagadougou headquarters by armed plainclothes officers. Several students were reportedly taken to undisclosed locations. The organization condemns what it calls “severe violations of freedoms” and demands their immediate release.

Growing tensions between students and the military

Days before the suspension, the Ugeb issued a statement accusing the military government of “systematic violations of democratic, union, and political freedoms” under the guise of counterterrorism. The student movement also criticized the regime’s “clear inability to restore security” amid escalating jihadist violence gripping large parts of the country.

Government launches judicial probe

The Faso prosecutor announced Wednesday the opening of a judicial investigation into writings and statements attributed to the Ugeb. International observers warn that the suspension reflects a broader pattern of repression against freedom of association and expression.

Human rights advocates argue that silencing students will not address Burkina Faso’s deepening security and governance crisis.