Kuwaiti Expat Blogger Mark is being sued by Benihana's franchise representation in Kuwait for giving them a poor review on his popular Kuwait blog 248am 'I'm Being Sued by Benihana'

The local company representing the Benihana franchise in Kuwait has filed claims against the blogger in excess of 5000 Kuwaiti Dinars  (approx $18000). Read english translation of the court order here, original arabic file here

Upon posting of his review of Benihana, Blogger Mark, found a comment (among the 100 odd comments) allegedly from the Benihana Kuwait's GM Mike Servo, that warned him about the upcoming court order and ending with the now popularized tagline "BTW are you Lebanese?".

Many people have since rallied in support of Mark, and the right to freedom of speech, posting comments on his blog, posting on Benihana's Facebook reviews page; and tweeting about it (follow #BenihanaKUW, #DubaiToday)

Benihana Inc. owning the franchise in North America et al, has distanced themselves via their Facebook Page from this PR debacle by claiming that the actions taken against the blogger were not from their company but by 'Benihana of Tokyo Inc' who owns franchises across the Middle East.

Mark claims his review was balanced and highlighted both positive and negative aspects of his experience at Benihana. Listen to his interview by Dubai Today who covered the topic on thier podcast this morning here

Should this go through, this could set an alarming precedent for Bloggers Freedom of Speech in Kuwait.

Find Mark and his blog here or on his facebook group or follow @mark248am on Twitter.

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