(CPJ/IFEX)- On 13 May 1998, government authorities ordered that ten private newspapers cease operating for non-payment of taxes. The newspapers affected by the order are: “L’Anfani”, “L’Alternative”, “Le Citoyen”, “Le Flic”, “L’Enquete”, “Paon Africain”, “Le Democrat”, “Haske”, “Le Republicain”, “Tribune du Peuple”, and “Le Soleil.” “Le Republicain” was closed down despite the fact that they […]
(CPJ/IFEX)- On 13 May 1998, government authorities ordered that ten private
newspapers cease operating for non-payment of taxes. The newspapers affected
by
the order are: “L’Anfani”, “L’Alternative”, “Le Citoyen”, “Le Flic”,
“L’Enquete”, “Paon
Africain”, “Le Democrat”, “Haske”, “Le Republicain”, “Tribune du Peuple”,
and “Le Soleil.” “Le Republicain” was closed down despite the fact that they
paid their
outstanding taxes.
**This alert contains information further to IFEX alert of 19 May 1998**
The office of the President subsequently suggested brokering a deal between
the independent newspapers and the national lottery agency to allow the
lottery agency to pay the collective taxes and fees for the affected
newspapers in exchange for advertising space. Editors of the newspapers are
in the process of deciding whether to accept the
deal with the lottery agency.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
Political Rights
right of independent journalists in Niger to freely exercise their
profession
Appeals To
General Ibrahim Bare Mainassara
President of the National Salvation Council
Niamey, Niger
Fax: +227 72 2245 / +227 72 272 / 227 72 2336
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
