JED condemns the arbitrary closure of Radio Étoile de Bolobo.
(JED/IFEX) – Kinshasa, 14 June 2012 – On 25 May 2012, Jean Lokanyi, deputy head of the National Intelligence Agency’s (ANR) local branch, ordered Radio Etoile de Bolobo, a Bolobo-based community station, to cease broadcasts.
Lokanyi accused the radio station, which launched in 2004, of operating without “valid documents”. He also expressed concerns that the station’s “editorial line” is unclear. The ANR official noted that it is the intelligence services’ mission to “monitor persons or national or foreign groups whose activities are suspected of posing a threat to state security.”
The allegation was denied by Radio Etoile de Bolobo director Alpha Manzanza, who said his station only airs news reports about development and health issues.
JED condemns the abusive and arbitrary nature of the station’s closure. The organisation urges authorities to lift the closure order without delay.
Please note this is an abridged translation.
