A Burundian journalist, Sandra Muhoza, faces up to 12 years in prison for sharing a message in a private WhatsApp group, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) reports.
Muhoza, who works for La Nova Burundi, has been detained for over seven months.
She is accused of “undermining national integrity” and “ethnic aversion” for posting about government weapon distribution.
The prosecution is seeking a 12-year sentence and a fine of 1 million Burundian francs ($336).
RSF has called for her immediate release, describing the charges as harsh and unfair.
A decision is expected in December.
This case follows the release of another journalist, Floriane Irangabiye, who was pardoned after being sentenced to 10 years for similar charges.
Despite easing isolationist policies, President Evariste Ndayishimiye’s government faces criticism for its human rights record.
Burundi ranks 108th out of 180 countries for press freedom.
