Stories from Benin

The Beninese judiciary has ruled on the leadership of the Democratic Party. Eric Oon-Dette, the party vice-president, had previously challenged the election and the designation of his competitor in court.

The court confirmed Nouré Noachade as the party president, dismissing claims that his election was irregular. Lawyers for Oondété had characterized the election process as an internal coup d'état. The verdict followed three debate hearings between lawyers.

The NGO Reporters Without Borders has raised concerns regarding the arrest of two journalists in Benin. One of the detainees is the publication director of Holo Fofaux, a media outlet critical of the Beninese government. Both journalists are reportedly facing charges of apology for terrorism. He is accused of harassment via a computer system, rebellion, and apology for terrorism. Reporters Without Borders head of investigation Arnauf Roger stated that involving the ECOWAS Court of Justice is essential to clarify the case. The arrest originally occurred in Côte d'Ivoire in July. The organization describes the arrests as kidnappings that violate international law. RSF argues that because the journalists held refugee status, they cannot receive a fair judicial process locally. The correspondent described the incident as a cross-border kidnapping.

Reporters Without Borders has filed a lawsuit against Benin and Côte d'Ivoire regarding the detention of two journalists in Benin.

The Court for the Repression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism issued the ruling.