Malian TikTok Influencer Executed by Suspected Jihadists

Malian TikTok influencer Mariam Cissé was executed by suspected jihadists after posting videos supporting the army, highlighting the extreme risks civilians face amid the country’s ongoing insurgency and humanitarian crisis.

Mali has been rocked by the execution of Mariam Cissé, a young TikTok influencer from the northern town of Tonka, after she was accused of supporting the Malian army through her social media posts. Cissé, in her early twenties and with over 100,000 followers, regularly posted videos depicting life in her hometown and expressing allegiance to the army, including wearing military uniform and captioning one video “Vive Mali” (Long Live Mali).

According to reports, she was seized by suspected jihadists while live-streaming at a market in a neighbouring town. Over the weekend, she was transported to Tonka and shot at the town’s Independence Square, an event witnessed by her brother and local residents. Security sources said the militants targeted her after accusing her of filming their movements for the Malian army. State television noted that Cissé had intended only to promote her community and support the army, and she had never solicited donations or financial support.

Her death comes amid a worsening crisis in Mali, where al-Qaeda-linked militants have imposed a fuel blockade on the capital, Bamako, disrupting daily life and forcing the government to close schools and universities for weeks. The African Union has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian situation, condemning attacks on civilians and pledging support for Mali and other Sahel countries facing similar security challenges.

Mali’s north and east remain largely outside government control despite the military’s seizure of power in 2021, and civilian populations continue to face threats from armed groups. The execution of a young influencer underscores the extreme dangers faced by ordinary citizens and activists in the country, and the growing climate of fear that social media activity can place a life at risk. In a region where insurgency and instability intersect, even digital expression can become an act of mortal defiance.