Pascal Mitowadé, a journalist with the Cotonou-based daily newspaper La Tribune, was sentenced on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, by the Court for the Repression of Economic Offences and Terrorism (CRIET) to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of 10 million CFA francs (about USD 17,000).
The conviction stems from a social media post published in December 2025 during heightened tensions following an attempted coup. According to sources close to the case, Mitowadé relayed information initially broadcast on national television, including claims by members of the military that they had seized power. He was arrested shortly after and remanded in custody on charges including apology for crimes against state security, incitement to hatred via the internet, and incitement to rebellion.
At a hearing on February 3, 2026, the Special Prosecutor’s Office sought a five-year prison sentence and a fine of 10 million CFA francs (about USD 17,000), arguing that the publications undermined public order and state security. The case was adjourned for deliberation before the court delivered its judgment on March 24.
In his defence, Mitowadé maintained that he had merely reported information already in the public domain amid widespread confusion. He stated that he subsequently published an official statement from the authorities a few hours later, presenting what he described as a balanced account of events. He also told the court that he acted in a climate of fear, having received threats days earlier, and denied any intention to support or legitimise the attempted coup.
The court’s decision to characterise the publication as support for those behind the attempted coup has raised concerns among media actors. Observers warn that such an interpretation risks blurring the line between legitimate journalistic reporting and serious criminal offences, particularly in fast-moving crisis situations where journalists are required to report developments of public interest.
Freedom of expression and of the press are guaranteed under Benin’s Constitution and international instruments ratified by the country, including Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. While these frameworks permit certain restrictions, such measures must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate. The use of custodial sentences in cases involving the dissemination of information raises concerns about compliance with these standards.
The case also comes amid already strained relations between authorities and the media, particularly around coverage of political and security issues. The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) is concerned over the conviction and calls for a careful review of the case in line with fair trial guarantees and Benin’s obligations to uphold freedom of expression and the right to information.
