(RSF/IFEX) – On 4 February 1998, the independent triweeklies “The Vision” and “Independent Observer” were officially suspended for failing to pay their registration taxes. On 21 January 1998, the Minister of Information had demanded that newspapers be registered or re-registered before 31 January 1998, for a fee of 50 US$ and 25 US$ respectively. On […]
(RSF/IFEX) – On 4 February 1998, the independent triweeklies “The Vision”
and “Independent Observer” were officially suspended for failing to pay
their registration taxes. On 21 January 1998, the Minister of Information
had demanded that newspapers be registered or re-registered before 31
January 1998, for a fee of 50 US$ and 25 US$ respectively. On 16 January
1998, the independent weekly “Standard Times” was shut down by the
authorities. No official reason was given.
Martins I. Martin, a journalist with “Business News”, has been held for more
than a month for allegedly spying for the Ecomog forces.
Sierra Leone has ratified the International Convenant on Civil and Political
Rights, Article 19 of which guarantees the freedom to inform and to be informed.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
and “Independent Observer” to resume publication
his profession
Appeals To
Major Johnny Paul Koroma
State House
Sierra Leone
(Fax is currently out of order)
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
