(FNJ/IFEX) – The following is a 25 April 2006 FNJ press release: The Federation of Nepalese Journalists expresses its delight over the present situation that gives a progressive outlet to the democratic process after the autocratic monarchy surrendered in front of the people’s movement. The Federation believes that the Nepali people will now be sovereign […]
(FNJ/IFEX) – The following is a 25 April 2006 FNJ press release:
The Federation of Nepalese Journalists expresses its delight over the present situation that gives a progressive outlet to the democratic process after the autocratic monarchy surrendered in front of the people’s movement. The Federation believes that the Nepali people will now be sovereign in the true sense and can decide the future of the nation according to the constitution made by them through a constitutional assembly. The Federation expresses heartfelt condolences to the martyrs of the people’s movement and also expresses special respect to the grieving families and to all those who had to face illegal detention, interference, torture and abuses by the authorities, and also to the participants of the movement.
The newly made government that is formed due to the strength of the people’s movement and restored parliament should now steer the nation to the direction of a constituent assembly. The new government and the restored parliament should directly address the proposals of the seven-party alliance, the 12 point agreement between the parties and the Maoists, the people’s movement and press freedom and freedom of expression, civil rights and all professional interests that actively took part to create a conducive environment. The nation is now on the threshold of a restructuring. Facing threats of counter-revolution and challenges and establishing an agreement between the seven party alliance and Maoists, the nation should now move forward towards the path of permanent peace ending violent conflict. The Federation urges an immediate ceasefire on the part of both the state and the Maoists, dialogue and cooperation for complete democracy.
The Federation is fully aware of journalists’ professional rights in relation to press freedom and freedom of expression and it expresses its determination to make progress towards its already established demands. Meanwhile, the Federation wants to draw the new government’s special attention to the need for immediate removal of all ordinances, policies and orders issued after the Royal coup of February 1. In the meantime, the Federation wants to express gratitude and respect to all media persons, and institutions for fulfilling their responsibility of disseminating accurate information to people despite state atrocities, torture and harassment, It also expresses its gratitude to national and international media institutions, professional communities, human rights activists, civil movement personalities, political parties and people for their support and assistance to save the independent press by raising their voices against state suppression during this difficult situation. The Federation also believes this support, assistance and courage will continue in the future as well.
The Federation expresses its concern over the situation of impunity and believes it will be ended and no one responsible for suppression and atrocities will escape from punishment. The Federation demands immediate compensation to journalists and media institutions who have been subjected to illegal detention, torture and harassment.
The Federation will always remain aware and active on all the issues about which it is concerned, to carry the nation on a democratic path.
Mahendra Bista
Secretary General, FNJ