(AMARC/IFEX) – The following is a 19 April 2006 AMARC press release: AMARC Condemns the Renewal of Unconstitutional Media Ordinance in Nepal Kathmandu, April 19, 2006 – The World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC) strongly condemns the introduction of the media ordinance dated April 3, 2006 by the government of Nepal. AMARC calls for […]
(AMARC/IFEX) – The following is a 19 April 2006 AMARC press release:
AMARC Condemns the Renewal of Unconstitutional Media Ordinance in Nepal
Kathmandu, April 19, 2006 – The World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC) strongly condemns the introduction of the media ordinance dated April 3, 2006 by the government of Nepal. AMARC calls for solidarity with the Save the Independent Radio Movement (SIRM) coalition struggling for freedom of expression and the right to communicate in Nepal.
The Media Ordinance reintroduces an ordinance that was issued on October 9, 2005. The Supreme Court issued a stay order against the original ordinance on the basis of a case filed against it by the SIRM. As with the previous version, the current Ordinance seeks, among other restrictive measures, to ban the broadcast of news and current affairs programs by independent broadcasters.
AMARC is deeply distressed by this act of the government. It is in violation of the Supreme Court’s order, the spirit of the constitution of Nepal and national and international standards pertaining to freedom of expression. We call upon the government of Nepal to retract its steps and not to engage in activities that encroach upon the rights of independent broadcasters and media freedom in general.
AMARC has taken serious note that one of its members, Sworgadwari Community Radio Station in Dang in western Nepal has been forced to pull off air a program on current affairs and that its telephone connection has been cut by the local administration. This is a blatant act of repression against a community radio station and we call upon the government to immediately withdraw the restriction order on the programs and to reinstate the phone connection of the station.
Nepal is going through a period of serious unrest and its people are struggling against a repressive regime. In recognition of the role of freedom of media as an integral part of democracy, community radio stations as well as all independent broadcasters of Nepal have joined hands with the ongoing people’s movement. As a movement that seeks to promote community broadcasting and freedom of expression, AMARC expresses its support to the struggle of Nepali people and calls for international solidarity with the Save Independent Radio Movement of Nepal.
