(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – Sorie Sudan Sesay, a senior journalist for the “Independent Observer”, has been forced into hiding following the issue of a warrant for his arrest in connection with an article claiming that Iranian soldiers were due to come to Sierra Leone. As well, “The Democrat” suspended publication in recent days following threats from […]
(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – Sorie Sudan Sesay, a senior journalist for the
“Independent Observer”, has been forced into hiding following the issue of a
warrant for his arrest in connection with an article claiming that Iranian
soldiers were due to come to Sierra Leone.
As well, “The Democrat” suspended publication in recent days following
threats from government officials. On 16 January 1998, another publication,
the “Standard Times”, was banned for an indefinite period of time due to an
article considered “offensive to the junta”. The article in question quoted
the deposed president Ahmed Tejan Kabbah and criticised France and China for
supporting the junta (see IFEX alert of 2 February 1998).
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
immediately and that the warrant for his arrest is withdrawn
internationally guaranteed right to freedom of expression
attacks against the independent press in Sierra Leone over the past month
the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Sierra Leone
has ratifed
Appeals To
Major Johnny Paul Koroma
State House
Freetown
Sierra Leone
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
