**Updates IFEX alerts dated 14 March and 24 January 1996** The disciplinary case against journalist Mamonyane Matsa’ba has been postponed “indefinitely.” However, it seems that this latest delay in Matsa’ba’s case will have “bad effects” on the journalist. “The pending case is haunting her…and it serves as a censorship,” said MISA-Lesotho Chairperson Bethuel Thai, adding […]
**Updates IFEX alerts dated 14 March and 24 January 1996**
The disciplinary case against journalist Mamonyane Matsa’ba has
been postponed “indefinitely.” However, it seems that this latest
delay in Matsa’ba’s case will have “bad effects” on the
journalist. “The pending case is haunting her…and it serves as
a censorship,” said MISA-Lesotho Chairperson Bethuel Thai, adding
that the delay greatly affects Matsa’ba’s “editorial freedom” at
state-run Radio Lesotho, where she works.
Matsa’ba’s case was first scheduled for 4 January 1996, but the
hearing was postponed to 6 March, at which time the disciplinary
tribunal postponed the hearing to 19 March. However, her lawyer
did not turn up for that hearing. No new date for the hearing was
set by the tribunal. If found guilty of the charges against her,
Matsa’ba could be dismissed from her job.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
immediately
Appeals To
Lira Motete
Minister of Information and Broadcasting
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
P.O. Box 36
Maseru, Lesotho
tel: +266 323 561 or 325 317
fax: +266 310 001
Ms. Mpine Tente
Principle Secretary
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
PO Box 36
Maseru 100
Lesotho
Fax: +266 310 003
Please copy appeals to the originator if possible.
