Category: Legal

** The Dangnivo trial: justice in search of clarity in Benin **

Since the enigmatic disappearance of Pierre Dangnivo, a trade unionist whose cause has shaken Benin, the country’s judicial system has been prey to a storm of uncertainties. Initially planned to conclude on March 14, 2025, the trial was extended, adding to the frustration of a community eager for truth. The contradictory statements of the witnesses and the maneuvers of Colonel Séverin Koumasségbo, former security manager of the ex-president Boni Yayi, highlight the faults of the system, where power and manipulation seem to hinder the quest for justice.

This case, far from being a simple legal procedure, is indicative of social fractures within the population, with more than 70 % of the Beninese expressing their distrust of justice perceived as ineffective. Dangnivo’s trial could also embody a turning point for judicial reform in Benin, encouraging an awareness necessary to restore legitimacy in a country plagued by impunity. While the investigations continue, the outcome of this case promises to be crucial, not only for the family of the victim, but also for the future of the Beninese judicial system.

### The trial of urban stone Dangnivo: a reflection of the struggles for justice in Benin

The trial of urban stone Dangnivo, a trade unionist and opponent mysteriously disappeared in 2010, resumed Cotonou after an interruption of seven years, reviving deep wounds and questions about justice in Benin. The first hearings revealed complex accusations and potential manipulations linked to the highest levels of the government, highlighting a still fragile judicial system in the face of political interests.

While DNA results increase the probability of a link with Dangnivo, uncertainty remains as to the solidity of the evidence in an often obscure judicial framework. This trial is not limited to a simple judicial case; He embodies the awakening of a civil society which claims transparency and responsibility. Popular mobilizations bear witness to an increasing desire for justice for all victims of political violence in Benin.

At the heart of this case is a vital issue: the quest for truth in a context where the rule of law is constantly put to the test. The looks turn to the Cotonou court, not only for the future of defendants, but also for the hope of true justice which could inspire a nation in search of peace and respect for human rights.

### Sudan and Emirates: a court for armaments ethics

On March 6, 2025, Sudan brought a daring accusation before the International Court of Justice, accusing the United Arab Emirates of supporting an ongoing genocide in Darfur-Oest through their support for rapid support forces (RSF). This approach, although centered on legal issues, sheds light on a much more complex reality, both in terms of international relations and that of human rights.

The implications of this case raise crucial questions: what is the responsibility of states in the supply of armaments to entities accused of human rights violations? While Sudan is trying to demonstrate the involvement of water, legislation and current practices around arms trade often seem to be failing, leaving the field free to atrocities.

This crisis raises the need for systemic change in armament control, encouraging the international community to review its ethical standards. Ultimately, the case of Sudan could become a catalyst for an urgent dialogue on the responsibility of nations in the face of atrocities funded by their own armaments decisions, marking a crucial stage towards a rigorous and respectful international ethics.

** Title: When modern armament endangers civilians: reflections after the South Korean air force accident **

On March 6, a military exercise in the South Korean Air Force turned into drama when one of his fighter planes accidentally dropped eight bombs, injuring civilians. This incident raises crucial questions about the security of military operations and the risks inherent in advanced technology. While the armies are modernizing, the search for precision can paradoxically increase human errors. By registering in a line of similar accidents through history, this event highlights the urgency of a reassessment of security and communication protocols. Beyond tactical aspects, he also challenges our ethical and legal framework, pushing us to challenge governments on risk management during conflicts. If the accident of March 6 is a tragedy, it offers an opportunity to reflect on the balance between military security and respect for civil rights.

** Freedom of the press in danger in Goma: a call for urgent action **

In Goma, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, press freedom is threatened by the rise of rebels of the M23/AFC, transforming the media landscape into a ground -undermined ground and risks for journalists. Alarming cases, such as the abduction of Tuver Wundi, highlight a situation where information professionals persist in choosing between the truth and their survival.

With the DRC ranked 150th in the world in terms of press freedom, journalists are often forced to self-censorship, giving way to the disinformation and propaganda of armed groups. The impact of this media crisis goes far beyond Congolese borders, affecting humanitarian efforts and fueling distrust of institutions.

It is urgent to strengthen the protection of journalists by suitable security protocols and international support. The fight for a free press is essential to build a democratic society and guarantee a better future. At the heart of this fight, Congolese journalists embody resilience and determination to inform despite the dangers, thus reaffirming their crucial role in the promotion of truth and justice.

** Liberation of God-Merci Betima: a signal of hope for the press in DR Congo? **

The liberation of journalist God-Merci Betima, after a short detention for having denounced embezzlement, revealed the persistent challenges that the press should face in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the general applause aroused by its enlargement, this case rejoices an insufficient legislative framework and a culture of fear which hinders the work of journalists. While the DRC remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, it is crucial to support freedom of expression and promote investigative journalism for all intimidation. The current situation calls for collective mobilization to transform the Congolese media landscape and strengthen democracy, in the service of truth and good governance. In short, Betima’s victory may well be the start of a significant change for the Congolese press.

** Reflections on parole and presidential grace in the DRC: beyond the event **

On March 1, 2025, the parole of three prisoners and the presidential grace granted to 801 others in Makala prison in Kinshasa aroused passionate debates. This approach, although perceived as a gesture of political reconciliation by President Félix Tshisekedi, raises crucial questions on the relationship between the executive and justice power. With emblematic beneficiaries, including opposition figures, this initiative questions the targeting of graces and their impact on political balance.

From a humanitarian point of view, the release of 801 people represents an advance, even if it remains marginal in the face of a prison population estimated at 32,000. The practice of incarceration for minor crimes highlights human rights challenges in the DRC. While the country sails between political tensions and reform needs, the efficiency of these measures on the ground remains uncertain.

The next few weeks will therefore be crucial to assess whether these leniency gestures will really open the way to a more equitable penal system, or if they will only be a simple parenthesis in a complex political dynamic. The Congolese expect concrete and sustainable actions to transform this opportunity into a real social change.

### Justice to the test of the crisis: a reflection on its roles and its limits

In his latest book, Gérard Davet examines, with Fabrice Lhomme, the role of French justice during the pandemic of Covid-19. The assertion that “justice has done its job” raises concerns about the real efficiency of judicial institutions in the face of disputed government decisions. While more than 60% of French people express an increasing mistrust of the authorities, the survey highlights an urgent demand for responsibility and transparency. The authors argue for a reform that would transform justice into a preventive player in the face of crises rather than a simple reactive of past errors. The need for appropriate education for public officials to better anticipate and manage crises is crucial to restore citizen’s confidence, asking the central question: how can justice evolve to be a catalyst for change in a constantly changing world?

** The departure of Maître Bakumba: a key moment for the Congo **

The resignation of Maître Chris-Cicero Bakumba, advocate of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), creates upright in the legal and religious environment. After sixteen years of service, his departure raises questions about the deep motivations that animate him, whether it is a desire for new opportunities or a quest to defend more societal causes. This change is part of a context where global religious institutions are evolving, with a majority of leaders wishing to modernize their structures. In this sense, the withdrawal of Bakumba represents not only a turning point for Cenco, but also an opening for a new generation wishing to make his voice heard. In a country in search of renewal, its heritage and future role will be scrutinized closely, both by its peers and by the Congolese population.

** A return to the past: the Invoke of the Alien Enemies Act and its socio-political risks **

The Trump administration plans to reactivate the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a controversial legal measure whose application raises major ethical and legal concerns. In a time when the country faced any war, the invocation of this law, criticized for its archaism, questions our relationship to immigration and security. Recent studies show that fears concerning immigration and crime are often unfounded, encouraging to wonder if our policies should be based on biased perceptions rather than convincing data.

In the middle of the electoral campaign, this tactic seems to be used to capitalize on the fears of citizens, while strengthening a climate of hostility towards vulnerable communities. The consequences of such a strategy go far beyond immediate impact; They could lead to deep social divisions.

While America is found at a crossroads, the question remains: how could we approach migratory challenges while preserving the fundamental values ​​of openness and inclusiveness that defined the nation? It is time to envisage more human solutions, which attack the roots of migratory crises, rather than yielding to the temptation of exclusion. The way to choose is that of constructive commitment, not isolation.