In Burkina Faso, a new law is causing heated controversy in the media world. Indeed, the deputies of the Assembly recently adopted a measure which gives the head of state the power to appoint the president of the Superior Council of Communication (CSC), the body responsible for controlling the media. This decision has triggered the ire of journalists’ unions, who see it as a worrying democratic step backwards.
Until now, the president of the Higher Communication Council was elected by his peers, representing different sectors of the state, including the National Assembly, the media and press unions. However, with the new law, the head of state will now have a say in the choice of president, as well as the organization and functioning of the CSC.
The Minister of Communication, Jean-Emmanuel Ouédraogo, tried to reassure journalists by saying that as long as they respect the rules and do not undermine national cohesion, they have nothing to fear. However, press unions believe that this new law constitutes an attack on freedom of expression and democratic principles.
Another provision of the law also raises concern: from now on, all publications on social networks with more than 5,000 subscribers will be subject to the same rules as the media. The measure aims to regulate the dissemination of information on online platforms, but is criticized for its potential to hinder users’ freedom of expression.
For press unions, this new law is a democratic regression, because it places traditional media and bloggers in the same category and regulates them by the same institution. In addition, the fact that the president of the CSC is now appointed by the head of state represents a step backwards compared to the previous system where he was elected by his peers.
This worrying situation highlights the need for a free and independent press, which can fully exercise its role as a counter-power in a democratic society. Freedom of expression and respect for democratic principles are essential foundations for the development of a country and the development of its citizens. Let us hope that the voices of protest will be heard and that measures will be taken to preserve press freedom in Burkina Faso.