Burkina Faso’s transitional leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has launched a strong campaign against what he calls extremist religious movements, warning preachers against spreading messages he considers radical.

Traoré said religion should be based on good conduct rather than fear or violence, and announced that imams who promote extremist ideas through sermons could face suspension. He also pledged support for religious figures who encourage peaceful discourse.

The leader criticized Islamic education abroad, saying hundreds of thousands of students are studying religious sciences without gaining professional skills. He announced plans to regulate overseas Islamic studies and require government approval for students seeking such programs.

The measures come after the transitional parliament approved a new Religious Freedoms Law aimed at strengthening the country’s secular system. The legislation criminalizes practices authorities consider abuses in the name of religion, including forced child begging and financial violations by religious organizations.

The move has increased tensions with Islamic figures. Several prominent imams, including Mohamed Ishaq Kindo and Mahmoud Barro, were detained after criticizing the legislation, while authorities closed a major Sunni mosque in Ouagadougou following protests demanding Kindo’s release.

Analysts say the confrontation could weaken Traoré’s relationship with Islamic groups that previously contributed to his popularity, while failing to address the security challenges caused by armed groups in the country.

Meanwhile, Traoré’s government has also moved toward diplomatic engagement with Israel, receiving the country’s ambassador in Ouagadougou after a period of limited relations.

As Burkina Faso tightens control over religious activities, questions remain over whether the government’s campaign against extremism will strengthen state authority or deepen tensions with influential Islamic communities.