Ras Bath trial begins in Bamako with 10-year sentence requested

The trial of Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, known as Ras Bath, and Rokiatou Doumbia, known as Rose Poivron, has commenced before the criminal chamber of the Bamako Court of Appeal in Mali.

Both defendants face charges of criminal conspiracy and undermining state credit through information and communication technologies. During the proceedings, the prosecution requested a 10-year prison sentence and a fine of 240,000 FCFA for both individuals.

Ras Bath, a prominent columnist and leader of the Collectif pour la défense de la République (CDR), defended his right to criticize the government and denounce the rising cost of living. Doumbia rejected the accusations, stating her actions were intended to alert authorities to economic hardships rather than to engage in political militancy. The trial has been held behind closed doors under heavy security following previous crowd movements near the court.