The West Africa Editors Society (WAES) has expressed deep concern over the conviction of Malian journalist Youssouf Sissoko, describing the development as a significant setback for press freedom and freedom of expression in the country.

In a statement issued in Accra on 24 March 2026 and signed by its interim President, Emmanuel Dogbevi, WAES said it was “deeply concerned over recent developments affecting press freedom in Mali”, particularly the conviction on Monday, 23 March, of Sissoko, publisher of L’Alternance, by Mali’s National Cybercrime Unit.

The Society aligned itself with the condemnation by the Association des Éditeurs de Presse Privée (ASSEP), stressing that the judicial action raises serious implications for media independence in the region. According to WAES, the decision represents “a troubling setback for freedom of expression and press freedom in Mali". ”.

WAES warned that such actions could have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate case. “Such action risks establishing a dangerous precedent that could further weaken the already fragile independent media institutions,” the statement noted.

Emphasising the role of the media in democratic governance, the Society underscored that “in any democratic society, a free and independent press is essential to ensuring access to information, fostering informed public debate, and promoting accountability”. It added that “any infringement on media independence undermines not only the rights of journalists but also the fundamental right of citizens to receive diverse, credible, and unbiased information”.

The regional body is therefore calling on Malian authorities to act with caution and uphold legal standards. WAES urged them “to exercise restraint, uphold due process, and ensure that the legal and institutional framework governing the media fully complies with national and international standards on freedom of expression and press freedom”.

The Society also expressed solidarity with the convicted journalist and the wider media community. It stated its “full solidarity with Youssouf Sissoko, his family, his colleagues, and the ASSEP”, while urging media stakeholders across West Africa “to remain united, vigilant, and steadfast in defending the core principles of a free, independent, and responsible press”.

Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom, WAES described it as “a cornerstone of democratic governance and the rule of law” and pledged to continue advocating for its protection across the sub-region.

WAES is a regional body representing editors in West Africa and is affiliated with The African Editors Forum (TAEF).