MFWA notes with special concern the harrowing experience of media rights defenders in countries like Guinea Bissau and Mali who have had to perform their duties under harsh conditions imposed as a result of the recent coups in both countries.
(MFWA/IFEX) – Accra, May 2, 2012 – On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day this year, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) notes with special concern especially, the harrowing experience of media rights defenders in countries like Guinea Bissau and Mali who have had to perform their duties under very harsh conditions imposed as a result of the recent coups d’état in the two countries.
In Guinea-Bissau, the military authorities are enforcing a media blackout which has worsened the already repressive media environment in that country. Mali is also facing similar threats.
The MFWA also salutes journalists and free speech advocates in all countries, especially The Gambia, for their steadfastness in the face of hardships imposed on media and citizens by the repressive Yahya Jammeh regime.
We urge them to continuously work for the improvement of democracy and press freedom in that country.
