In Benin, activist and writer Julien Kandé Kanssou appeared before the Court for the Repression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (CRIET) on Tuesday in a case that has stirred debate about free speech and political expression.
A known opposition figure and member of the Democrats party, Kanssou is facing charges linked to a Facebook post in which he called for an “electoral revolution” ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Authorities allege his statements could incite public disorder and threaten national stability, while supporters argue it is a targeted attempt to silence dissent.
The case is being closely followed by human rights advocates and political observers, who say it will test the limits of digital expression in Benin’s evolving democratic landscape.
