Respecting Our Readers, Upholding the Law
CongoTimes.com provides a platform for open dialogue and exchange. While we strongly support freedom of expression, this freedom comes with responsibilities, including compliance with the laws of the Republic of the Congo, particularly those governing the press, digital communication, and public order.
Our Community Standards and Comments Policy are guided by both journalistic ethics and national legal frameworks, including:
Legal References
1. Freedom of Expression (Constitution, Article 27)
The Constitution of the Republic of the Congo (2015) guarantees freedom of expression, including freedom of the press, provided it respects public order, good morals, and the rights of others.
“La liberté d’expression est garantie. Elle s’exerce dans le respect de la loi, de l’ordre public et des droits d’autrui.”
– Constitution du Congo, Art. 27
2. Press and Media Law (Law No. 8-2001 of November 12, 2001)
This law regulates press freedom and outlines ethical and legal responsibilities for both journalists and media users, including defamation, incitement to hatred, and dissemination of false information.
Prohibited under this law:
- Defamation of individuals or institutions
- Hate speech or incitement to violence
- Publishing false information that may disturb public order
3. Cybercrime and Digital Responsibility (Law No. 9-2019 of February 25, 2019)
The Congolese law on cybersecurity and cybercrime addresses offenses committed via digital platforms, including harassment, identity theft, online fraud, and the propagation of fake news or illegal content.
Any content that violates this law, including threats, incitement to violence, or digital defamation, may result in criminal prosecution.
Comments Policy
We welcome respectful and diverse contributions, but will not tolerate any behavior that contravenes Congolese law or the values of open, responsible journalism.
Prohibited:
- Hate speech, tribalism, ethnic incitement
- Defamation of individuals, companies, or public institutions
- Dissemination of false or misleading information
- Threats, insults, or harassment
- Impersonation, spam, or off-topic content
- Encouragement of illegal acts
Moderation & Enforcement
CongoTimes.com reserves the right to:
- Edit or remove comments that violate these standards or applicable laws
- Report illegal content to relevant authorities in accordance with Law No. 9-2019
- Suspend or block users who repeatedly violate our guidelines
Questions or Complaints?
If you believe a comment violates the law or your rights, or wish to appeal a moderation decision, please contact us.
By participating on CongoTimes.com, you agree to abide by our rules and the laws of the Republic of the Congo. Let’s protect this space together—through responsibility, respect, and truth.