(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is very concerned by the situation of the East Timorese media and journalists. **Updates IFEX alerts of 20 April, 29 March, 10 March and 24 February 1999** According to RSF’s information, on 17 April 1999, the office of “Voice of East Timor”, a pro-independence newspaper, was ransacked by members of the Red […]
(RSF/IFEX) – RSF is very concerned by the situation of the East Timorese
media and journalists.
**Updates IFEX alerts of 20 April, 29 March, 10 March and 24 February 1999**
According to RSF’s information, on 17 April 1999, the office of “Voice of
East Timor”, a pro-independence newspaper, was ransacked by members of the
Red and White Iron pro-integration militia. Not a computer, fax machine or
telephone was left intact. The damage is estimated at more than US$30,000.
According to sources, the attack was planned by the militias to silence the
newspaper after it reported a massacre in Liquida two weeks ago.
Reports also suggest that East Timorese civilians are victims of pressure
and threats when they talk to pro-independence and foreign journalists.
Furthermore, two foreign journalists were seriously beaten as they tried to
escape from attacks carried out by militias on the homes of pro-independence
supporters in Dili on the weekend of 17-18 April.
Several non-governmental organisations have reported attacks and threats by
militias against East Timorese and foreign journalists since February.
The public TV network TVRI is accused of broadcasting unbalanced reports on
the situation. For example, after the massacre that left more than twenty
people dead – individuals who were accused by militias of supporting
independence – TVRI broadcast a programme showing quiet fishermen and
smiling children on the beach.
Some independent and reliable reports have stated that pro-integration
militias are supported by members of the Indonesian army.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the Governor of East Timor:
Timor by launching a thorough investigation, in order to find and bring to
justice those who want to silence independent journalists in East Timor, and
in light of reports that pro-integration militias are supported by members
of the Indonesian army
that all East Timorese and foreign journalists can perform their duties
safely, regardless of the opinions they express
Appeals To
Mr Abilio Soares
Governor of East Timor
Dili, East Timor
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
