(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is concerned by the deteriorating situation of certain journalists and independent media in Congo. According to RSF’s information, the majority of independent newspapers have not been published in over three weeks, since fighting began in the capital. Even before the fighting had recommenced, some newspapers had been the subject of harassment and […]
(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is concerned by the deteriorating situation of certain
journalists and independent media in Congo. According to RSF’s information,
the majority of independent newspapers have not been published in over three
weeks, since fighting began in the capital. Even before the fighting had
recommenced, some newspapers had been the subject of harassment and threats.
On 5 September 1998, the offices of the satirical newspaper “La Rue meurt”
were vandalised. In July, Richard Nsana, editor-in-chief of the weekly “Le
Flambeau” escaped a kidnapping attempt. In the months that followed he
received direct threats.
**Updates IFEX alert of 8 September 1998**
Moreover, the majority of independent newspapers’ offices are located in the
Bacongo and Makélékélé neighbourhoods, areas where there have been direct
clashes between the Congolese army and militias. According to several
witnesses, the offices were vandalised and robbed, their equipment was
resold in neighbourhoods to the north of the city, and journalists were
arrested. The army is currently leading what it terms “combing operations”
in these neighbourhoods.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the President:
situation of independent journalists
who exercise their profession and to punish the authors of these crimes and
abuses
commitments are respected, such as the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights and the African Charter of Human Rights, both ratified by
Congo
Appeals To
Mr. Denis Sassou Nguesso
President
Presidential Palace
Brazzaville, Congo
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.