Rights groups accuse some authoritarian governments of using the coronavirus pandemic as a pretext to further limit free expression. But in the North African country of Algeria, the trend is partly going the other way.  As brand names go, FILE – Algerians march in an anti-government demonstration in the Algerian city of Bordjab Bou Arreridj, on Feb. 14, 2020.The broadcasts are happening as rights groups accuse authorities of censoring some independent media, and arresting several high-profile activists and journalists in recent weeks.  Reporters Without Borders’ North Africa director Souhaieb Khayati ticks off a few of them — including RSF correspondent Khaled Drareni.  
Khayati considers Radio Corona the perfect answer to what he calls the absurdity and arbitrariness of the Algerian regime.  Founder Benadouda has had his own brush-ups with authorities. He fled his homeland in 2014, after being harassed for his reporting. He’s now based in Rhode Island. 
He says Radio Corona is about more than COVID-19. It’s also the voice of the Hirak protest movement, although he may keep its moniker.  “Radio Corona won’t stop after the crisis,” he said. “What we are now living with this virus — it’s something we won’t forget. So why not keep the name?”  
Besides, he says, there are other political viruses to tackle once this pandemic is over.    
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