Niger: General Abdourahamane Tiani toughens sanctions to ensure public safety and human dignity
Brigadier General Abdourahamane Tiani has taken a decisive initiative to reinforce public security and preserve national tranquility. He has signed a new law aimed at restoring a delicate balance between freedom of expression and the protection of individual rights.
According to Ordinance No. 2024-28, any person found guilty of defamation or insults via electronic communication now faces a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years, along with a fine of 1.000.000 CFA francs. This provision aims to deter abuses on digital platforms and maintain a climate of respect and civility in public exchanges.
Furthermore, the dissemination of data likely to disturb public order or undermine human dignity is now subject to harsher penalties. Offenders face prison sentences of 2 to 5 years and fines ranging from 2.000.000 to 5.000.000 CFA francs. A press release from the Ministry of Justice highlighted these new measures, emphasizing their importance for stability and social cohesion.
The Minister of Justice has called for vigilance and responsibility in the use of media and digital platforms. He specified that firm instructions have been given to the Republic’s prosecutors to rigorously pursue the authors of such acts without leniency. This approach illustrates the government’s determination to combat harmful speech and promote a respectful and secure communication environment.
