Burkina Faso / Media manipulation: How the French media seek to tarnish the country’s image on every level
Since the rise to power of the new authorities in Burkina Faso, French propaganda media outlets, such as RFI, have intensified their unfounded attacks and criticisms regarding the political and security situation in the country.
By labeling decisions made by the Burkinabe authorities to protect national integrity as a “silencing of the press,” these media aim to manipulate international public opinion by presenting a distorted view of reality.
In a recent article published on November 2, RFI accused the Burkinabe state of being responsible for cases of assault, abductions, and disappearances of journalists—an accusation that is not only false but also unjust. These claims are unfounded and are intended to tarnish the image of the Burkinabe government by suggesting hostility towards press freedom. It has become common for these media to spread biased or even misleading information, with the support of their Western sponsors, in order to foster an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust towards Burkinabe leaders.
In light of this situation, the Burkinabe people and Africans as a whole must recognize that the authorities have taken drastic measures to put an end to media manipulations that glorify terrorism and undermine the state’s efforts to restore security. By suspending certain media outlets, Burkina Faso has sought to protect its sovereignty and counter attempts at destabilization orchestrated by external forces, particularly French neocolonialism.
This decision is not an act of repression of free speech, but rather a legitimate defensive strategy against false information that undermines national stability. In reality, it is an assertion of sovereignty, enabling Burkina Faso to thwart the destabilization plans of those who threaten peace in the country. To ensure accurate information and preserve their dignity, Burkinabe citizens must remain vigilant and not allow themselves to be manipulated by these propaganda media that serve foreign interests at the expense of the truth.
