Ouagadougou: Defamation by means of electronic communication is punishable, in Niger, by a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and a fine of 1 to 3 million FCFA while insult uttered under the same conditions is punishable by a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years and a fine ranging from 2 to 5 million FCFA.
These new sanctions were introduced into the law suppressing cybercrime in Niger through an order from General Abdourahamane Tiani signed on June 7, explains the Nigerien press agency.
The modification made by the presidential order ‘aims on the one hand to restore the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of individual rights and on the other hand to preserve public tranquility and security,’ explains the ANP.
In a press release relayed by this agency, the Nigerien Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Keeper of the Seals, Aliou Daouda, called on citizens to be vigilant and responsible in the use of media and digital platforms. .
‘Citizens, journalists, communication professionals must respe
ct the rights of each person, ensure not to harm the reputation and dignity of others and refrain from disseminating data likely to harm the national unity or public order,’ he said.
In addition, the dissemination of data likely to disturb public order or undermine human dignity is punishable by a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years and a fine of 2 to 5 million FCFA.
In the press release, the minister in charge of justice warns that ‘firm instructions have been given to public prosecutors’ so that they pursue ‘without weakness or complacency’ the perpetrators of the offenses in question.
Until now, defamation and insults on the internet were punishable by fines, with prison sentences having been abolished in 2022.
Source: Burkina Information Agency