Mali radio host held over remarks on ex-PM’s death

A prominent broadcaster and political activist in Mali has been detained for asserting that a former prime minister who died last year in prison was assassinated.

Mohamed Youssouf Bathily – a well-known radio and television host who’s popularly known as Ras Bath – faces charges including disturbing public order.

He made the remarks about the late prime minister, Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, at a political meeting on Saturday.

Videos of his speech have been widely shared online.

There have been calls for Mali’s military government to allow an investigation into Mr. Maiga’s death.

He was an ally of the former president, Ibrahimm Boubacar Keita, who was overthrown three years ago.