Burkina Faso: The Observatory welcomes the release of Gontran Somé and Christian Kaboré – after 26 days in captivity

Burkinabe lawyers Gontran Somé and Christian Kaboré were kidnapped between Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso on 10 October 2024. They were released on 5 November 2024, after 26 days in captivity.

Mr Gontran Somé and Mr Christian Kaboré were travelling to Bobo-Dioulasso from Ouagadougou. The lawyers had to change their route due to bad weather, which made the road impassable.

The lawyers‘ car crossed the path of a non-state armed group in an area renowned for its insecurity. One of the passengers with Gontran Somé and Christian Kaboré, who was spared by the members of this group, reported their abduction.

Burkina Faso’s lawyers operate in a context marked by serious and multiple threats. They are particularly subject to the pressure exerted by the transitional government and the authorities on legal professionals. Lawyers working on sensitive cases, particularly human rights cases, often face intimidation and even repression. In addition, the crisis-ridden judicial system does not always respect procedures, thereby undermining the defence of fundamental rights.

In addition to this, attacks by armed groups pose a direct threat to lawyers in several parts of the country. Travel becomes risky and exposes lawyers to physical danger.

The Observatory welcomes the release of lawyers Gontran Somé and Christian Kaboré, as well as the courage of our colleagues.

The Observatory remains very concerned about the increasing violence and risks facing the legal profession in Burkina Faso.

The Observatory urges the Burkina Faso authorities to guarantee the security and integrity of lawyers throughout the country.