Benign : The Hounvi and Boko-Homeky files create a diversion

As if by magic, the problems of the Beninese seem to have vanished since the kidnapping of Steve Amoussou on 12 August 2024 in Lomé, Togo and, later, the arrest of the duo Olivier Boko and Oswald Homeky. And yet…

Social networks and most private media have found something to grind with these two cases. Like a clap of thunder, the news of the arrest of Olivier Boko and Oswald Homeky caused a shock in public opinion as it seemed like a joke in bad taste. On social networks,  the first actors who posted the information on their accounts and in forums were reprimanded and treated as liars. It was only gradually that the public woke up from their dream. Since, social networks have not dried up with comments and conjectures on the fate now reserved for the two unfortunate people.

The disgrace and fall of the two unfortunate people caused a shock, especially since the first was considered an alter ego of President Talon.. Without official position, all the doors of the palace and ministries were open to him. He was especially a regular at the home of the President of the Republic who, according to confidences, called him “vice-president” during the first term between 2016 and 2021.

His companion in misfortune was no less famous. Close to the head of state, he was minister of sports before resigning to work for the election of Olivier Boko in 2026. It is moreover this ambition which ended up breaking the legendary friendship between these personalities. Accused of attempted coup, both are currently in detention awaiting trial.

This affair which reminds us that friendships have little resistance to politics has become like a drug administered to the Beninese so that they forget their daily problems. Previously, it’s another incredible affair that has kept citizens busy. This is the kidnapping, in Lomé, Togo by Steve Amoussou taken for “Brother Hounvi according to his lawyer, a harsh critic of President Talon. Brought back to Benin in unclear and illegal circumstances, Steve Amoussou is currently detained in the civil prison of Cotonou. Two of his captors, civilians, are also being prosecuted for kidnapping.

Since, even the opposition seems focused on these two issues, forgetting the daily life that, yet is made up of many questions. Indeed, inflation has reached unprecedented levels and more and more households are having difficulty affording a meal a day.

The high cost of living has awakened the unions from their torpor. To force the government to find solutions, they have organized marches and other protest movements in the past.

Today the population has found a distraction from hunger and other problems, the government can quietly pursue its social policies, even if it means finding something else to keep the alarm clock away.

Damien TOLOMISSI