Abourahamane Lirwana sentenced to two years in prison over Facebook post

A court in military-ruled Niger has sentenced lawyer Abourahamane Lirwana to two years in prison following a social media post that suggested internal divisions within the country’s national army. The ruling, delivered in a climate of heightened political sensitivity, underscores the tightening restrictions on public commentary regarding the military since the July 2023 coup. Lirwana was convicted based on a Facebook post that authorities deemed inflammatory during a period of national instability.The conviction stems from Lirwana's online comments where he referenced former President Mahamadou Issoufou and the detained President Mohamed Bazoum. His statements regarding potential fractures within the security forces were viewed by the court as a threat to national cohesion. This legal action follows the ousting of President Bazoum by General Abdourahamane Tiani, whose administration has been vigilant against any narrative that challenges the image of a unified military front.The sentencing occurs against a backdrop of increasing volatility in Niamey, including reports of a failed army mutiny in the capital. Lirwana's imprisonment highlights the risks faced by professionals and citizens when discussing the intersection of military affairs and civilian politics under the current regime. As the junta continues to consolidate its power, the case serves as a significant marker of the shrinking space for dissent and the rigorous enforcement of laws governing social media and national security.