Malian Activist Alou Badra Sacko Remains Unaccounted For Following Criticism of Government’s Increase in Telecom Taxes

Malian Activist Alou Badra Sacko Remains Unaccounted For Following Criticism of Government’s Increase in Telecom Taxes

The president of the “Don’t Touch My Money” (Dôremê té bôh Alà) movement, has still not been released after being kidnapped by armed and hooded men near the Ministry of National Education in Bamako.

His continued disappearance is fueling growing concerns among civil society groups and human rights organizations.

Sacko gained national recognition for his strong opposition to the recent telecommunications tax hike, which took effect in early March 2025.

The tax, which significantly increased the cost of phone top-ups and mobile money transactions, has further strained an already struggling population amid rising inflation and frequent power outages.

On March 11, 2025, Sacko officially became the leader of “Touche pas à mon Argent”, a growing citizen-led platform fighting against the rising cost of living.

The movement quickly gained traction, becoming a symbol of resistance against economic policies deemed oppressive.

Eyewitnesses report that Sacko was abducted in broad daylight near the Ministry of National Education, with his captors whisking him away in an unmarked vehicle.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the abduction, and details surrounding his disappearance remain unclear.