Journaliste en danger (JED)

The African Freedom of Expression Exchange, a network of organisations who are also IFEX members, has deplored the current state of attacks, arrests, and harassments meted out to journalists in many countries on the continent, especially in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Somalia.

Journalist in Danger welcomes a recent decision by Katanga’s broadcast regulator to allow Manono Community Radio to restart its activities. Mr. Justin Mussa Fundi, head of the Tanganyika district’s Communications Department, had illegally shut down the station for 20 days.

Manono Community Radio was shut down on 8 January, after the head of the Tanganyika district’s Communications Department accused it of airing “messages capable of disturbing the public order” and calling on teachers to be part of a strike.

Approximately 30 assailants stormed Radio Télévision Nationale Congolaise’s headquarters on 30 December, and held RTNC personnel hostage for more than three hours, until security forces recovered control of the building.

Representatives of freedom of expression organisations in Africa that are members of IFEX met in Accra, Ghana, on 9 and 10 December 2013 to develop a framework for regional networking in Africa.

IFEX members strongly condemn recent attacks on journalists during public demonstrations in Kyiv and call for those responsible to be held accountable.

Over 50 IFEX members and partners appeal to the civil society groups assisting in a consultation process with elected representatives to protect freedom of expression in the new Tunisian Constitution.

Roger Sebyera was arrested on 30 November by government intelligence officials for acting “suspiciously” while he reported on President Joseph Kabila’s arrival to Rutshuru.