In Benin, legal tensions are mounting following the conviction of online activist Steve Amoussou, who was sentenced to two years in prison and fined two million CFA francs—roughly $3,500.

Amoussou has denied all charges against him, sparking criticism from civil society groups and rights advocates. His lawyer, Aboubacar Baparapé, issued a swift response to the court’s verdict on Monday.

Despite a two-week window to file an appeal, Baparapé noted that procedural constraints make it unlikely they can legally challenge the ruling. The case has intensified concerns over freedom of expression and judicial fairness in Benin.