Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala, a renowned journalist in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was recently at the center of a controversial arrest. On September 8, 2023, as he was preparing to take the plane for a professional trip to Lubumbashi, Stanis was arrested by the judicial police at N’Djili airport. This arrest follows his alleged involvement in the murder of MP Chérubin Okende Senga.
However, according to the Online News Media Association of the DRC (MILRDC), Stanis Bujakera is not the author of the incriminated article, which was published in the newspaper Jeune Afrique. His lawyer points out that, in accordance with the law, the publishing director is responsible for the content published in the absence of a clearly attributed signature. Consequently, MILRDC questions the reasons for the journalist’s arrest without any prior communication with the media concerned.
In a press release, MILRDC expresses its deep dismay at this situation and calls for the immediate release of Stanis Bujakera. The association insists on respect for the fundamental rights of journalists, in particular their right to inform and their freedom of movement.
This case raises concerns about press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo. MILRDC calls on the competent authorities to put an end to what appears to be harassment against Stanis Bujakera and to guarantee the protection of journalists in the exercise of their profession.
The arrest of Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala highlights the challenges journalists face in their quest for transparency and truth. It is crucial that the media can exercise their reporting role without fear of unjustified reprisals. Press freedom is an essential pillar of any democratic society and must be preserved at all costs.
In conclusion, it is imperative that the competent authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo respect the rights of Stanis Bujakera and guarantee an environment conducive to press freedom. Justice must be delivered in a fair and transparent manner, respecting democratic principles and the fundamental rights of all actors involved.