(MISA/IFEX) – The Lesotho National Insurance Group (LNIG) is suing the weekly tabloid “Mohahlaula”, for publishing a news item that the company has deemed to be damaging to its business activities. In its 15 November 2002 edition (Volume 4 No. 46), the publication reported that the company was facing possible bankruptcy due to alleged mismanagement […]
(MISA/IFEX) – The Lesotho National Insurance Group (LNIG) is suing the weekly tabloid “Mohahlaula”, for publishing a news item that the company has deemed to be damaging to its business activities.
In its 15 November 2002 edition (Volume 4 No. 46), the publication reported that the company was facing possible bankruptcy due to alleged mismanagement of funds. The report further elaborated on alleged internal power struggles within the LNIG. A summons was subsequently issued, restraining “Mohahlaula” from publishing reports on the LNIG until the court ruled on the case. Despite the summons, “Mohahlaula” informed the public about the proceedings and that it was being denied the right to inform its readers, hence denying people their right to access information.
MISA-Lesotho (Miles) issued a statement condemning the attempt to silence “Mohahlaula”. Miles is concerned that a court ruling in favour of the LNIG could result in the publication’s closure, due to a shortage of funds for legal and other associated fees.
