Malian female artists Babani Koné, Mariam Bah, and Binguini Bagaga have been remanded in custody following a court order by the Prosecutor of the National Cybercrime Unit for online exchanges deemed offensive and immoral.
Charged with “mutual insults” and “violating morality,” the three women face trial on September 4 under Malian Law No. 2019-056 on cybercrime, specifically Articles 20 and 23, which penalize the digital dissemination of immoral content and public insults.
Authorities have not disclosed the exact nature of the remarks or images shared.
The artists, all with notable public profiles, were questioned by the Specialized Brigade on July 9 before formal legal proceedings were initiated.
Koné is a revered traditional music singer, Bah is known for both her songs and controversial posts, while Bagaga is active in online debates.
The case has sparked national debate on the boundaries of digital expression and the legal responsibilities of public figures in Mali’s evolving online space.
