In Mali, Issa Kaou Djim, former vice-president of the National Transitional Council, has been sentenced to two years in prison, with one year suspended. Additionally, he faces a fine of 5 million CFA francs (approximately $8,000).

Kaou Djim was convicted of insulting a foreign head of state and using information systems to disseminate offensive remarks. His lawyer, however, has described the punishment as excessively harsh and confirmed plans to appeal the decision.

This sentencing adds to the political tensions in Mali, where freedom of speech and political expression are being scrutinized under the transitional government.