The trial of Beninese journalist Virgile Ahouansè opened on Monday February 13 in Porto-Novo. He is being prosecuted for “spreading false news” by the correctional chamber of the Court for the repression of economic offenses and terrorism (Criet).
With our correspondent in Cotonou, Jean-Luc Aplogan
In addition to the journalist, the public prosecutor is prosecuting a neighborhood leader and a school night watchman, both of whom testified in the incriminated report which the police had formally denied at the time. In mid-December 2022, Crystal News, the online radio station of which he is information director, broadcast an investigation accusing the police of extra-judicial executions committed in a school in Porto-Novo.
Virgile Ahouansè and the district chief appeared free. The three defendants were questioned. The journalist explained that his investigation is built on testimonies. The court asks him why the version of the police does not appear in his subject. He replies that the police institution often remains silent when called upon in a journalistic investigation. ” This has happened to me on previous surveys. », Reveals Mr. Ahouansè.
The other two defendants testify and answer questions from the judges and lawyers.
Me Ba Parapé requests the release of the only defendant in pre-trial detention. This is the night watchman. The court reserves its answer and postpones the hearing to March 13.
In his first reactions at the end of the hearing, Me Baparapé, one of the journalist’s lawyers, remains very cautious: ” We are still in procedure, we must have restraint and know how to keep reason. »
Crystal News’ news director continues to ply his trade. On March 13, if the court considers that the proceedings are over, it will then open the sequence of indictments and pleadings.