Mali: Further information: Author activist remains arbitrarily detained: Étienne Sissoko

On 14 October, the Bamako Court of Appeal ordered Étienne Sissoko’s provisional release pending his appeal trial on 11 November, but the decision was suspended later the same day, following an appeal filed by the Prosecutor. Étienne Sissoko, a Malian economist and university professor, was convicted on charges of defamation, damaging the state’s reputation and distributing fake news after the publication of a book in which he denounced alleged propaganda in the Malian government’s public information campaign. He was sentenced to two years in prison, with one year suspended, and a fine of XOF 3 million (approximately 4,500 Euros). He must be immediately and unconditionally released. Choose a language to view report English English French Spanish Download PDF Africa Campaigns Censorship and Freedom of Expression Human Rights Defenders and Activists Mali Unlawful Detention Urgent Action Campaigns Recently added Mozambique: Authorities must end post-election assault on protests now Pakistan: Flood survivors in Sindh province suffer disease and food insecurity amid government inaction – new testimony Brazil: The jury trial in the case of Marielle and Anderson may be a response from the State to violence against human rights defenders. Sudan: Urgent need for civilian protection in wake of escalating violence Japan: Momentum for marriage equality grows with Tokyo High Court ruling Write a letter, change a life Every year, our global community comes together to fight injustice and support people whose human rights are under threat. Join the Write for Rights campaign and demand justice by calling on decision makers to do the right thing.