Gontrand Somé et Christian Kaboré

Burkina Faso: two lawyers kidnapped and murdered in eastern Burkina Faso

15 October 2024

Burkinabe lawyers Gontrand Somé and Christian Kaboré were murdered in Burkina-Faso after being kidnapped by terrorists on 12 October 2024.

Mr Gontrand 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 inaccessible.

The lawyers‘ car crossed paths with terrorists in an area known for its insecurity. A passenger in the car with Gontrand Somé and Christian Kaboré, who was unharmed by the terrorists, reported their abduction.

Lawyers in Burkina Faso practise in an environment characterised by multiple threats. They are particularly subject to the pressure brought to bear on legal professionals by the transitional government and the authorities. 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 due process, which undermines the defence of fundamental rights.

Moreover, terrorist attacks are a direct threat to lawyers in several parts of the country. Travelling becomes risky and exposes lawyers to physical danger. These threats were tragically illustrated by the kidnapping and murder of Mr Gontrand Somé and Mr Christian Kaboré.

The Observatory strongly condemns the murder of colleagues Gontrand Somé and Christian Kaboré.

The Observatory expresses its most sincere condolences to the families of the victims of this appalling act. 

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

The Observatory urges the Burkina Faso authorities to conduct an independent, impartial and transparent investigation into the circumstances of the murders of Gontrand Somé and Christian Kaboré. 

The Observatory recalls that, in accordance with the United Nations Basic Principles on the Role of the Bar, in particular Principle 17:

“Where the security of lawyers is threatened as a result of discharging their functions, they shall be adequately safeguarded by the authorities.” (Principle 17)