Burkina Faso’s government, currently led by a junta, has taken the decision to suspend one of the nation’s highly regarded radio stations, Radio Omega, following the broadcast of an interview that was considered disrespectful to Niger’s new military leadership.

The suspension, effective immediately, was announced by Communications Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo, who stated that the move was taken in the best interests of the country.

The interview featured Ousmane Abdoul Moumouni, spokesperson for a recently-formed Nigerien group advocating for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted by the Presidential Guard on July 26.

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Moumouni’s remarks, which were deemed insulting towards the new Nigerien authorities, prompted this action.

The Communications Minister criticized the group for promoting violence and seeking to restore Bazoum through any means, implying potential threats to Niger’s sovereignty.

This suspension follows a pattern of recent media restrictions in Burkina Faso, including the suspension of French TV channels and the expulsion of foreign correspondents.