Mali: at the opening of his trial, Ras Bath rejects the charges of undermining institutions.

The first hearing primarily focused on audio recordings presented by the prosecution as evidence. Detained provisionally for nearly three years, Ras Bath denied the allegations against him.

While on the stand, the president of the court asked the commentator whether he recognized the charges of association with wrongdoers and undermining the credit of the State. “No,” replied Youssouf Bathily, who remained silent and firm throughout this first day of the hearing.

The commentator, who appears on a private Malian radio and television station, has been held for about three years in relation to this case. Alongside him is an activist known as Rose, regularly presented as a campaigner against high living costs.

Messages Denouncing the Rise in Prices

During the hearing, Rose explained that her publications and statements on social media aimed to alert the authorities to the rise in the cost of essential goods. She stated that she did not seek to destabilize the institutions, but simply wanted to draw attention to the economic difficulties faced by the population.

The prosecution relies particularly on the connections between the two defendants. Ras Bath had invited Rose to his shows on two occasions in the past. For the judicial authorities, these exchanges could constitute signs of a conspiracy aimed at attacking the institutions of the Republic. This theory is contested by the defense.

The defendants’ lawyers have requested the removal of the audio recordings from the case, arguing that their use in the proceedings was not regular. The court will have to rule on this challenge in the course of the discussions.

Upon exiting the hearing, supporters of the commentator lifted him triumphantly in the courthouse, chanting “Free Ras Bath.” The commentator, fist raised, thanked them. The discussions are set to resume on August 12.