The arrest of journalist Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala: a dangerous precedent for press freedom
On September 8, freedom of expression was once again violated in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala, a renowned independent journalist, was arrested at N’Djili airport in Kinshasa as he was preparing to board a flight. Since then, he has been deprived of his liberty, accused of having relayed information from the magazine Jeune Afrique concerning the assassination of a deputy.
This arrest, under questionable conditions, raises many questions. Why wasn’t Stanis simply summoned or given the opportunity to defend himself as a free man? Why has relaying information become a crime in the DRC? Stanis did not sign the incriminated article, he is not automatically responsible for its content. We should not confuse Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala and Jeune Afrique, which are two legally distinct entities.
In addition, he is also accused of having prepared a confidential note for the National Intelligence Agency on the assassination of the MP. However, the onus is on the authorities to prove the falsity of this note, not on Stanis to prove its authenticity. This affair highlights the peril of press freedom in a tense electoral context. Is this an attempt to silence independent journalists and limit media coverage of the elections?
Stanis’ arrest is also concerning with regard to the protection of journalistic sources. Case investigators are apparently trying to access his phone to discover his sources. This constitutes a serious violation of source confidentiality, a fundamental principle of investigative journalism and press freedom.
This arrest also raises concerns about respecting the duty of journalists to inform the public, even if this involves publishing sensitive information. It risks discouraging journalists who would like to carry out in-depth investigations during this crucial electoral period. It is a threat to Congolese democracy and freedom of expression.
We must remain vigilant and support the release of Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala. This unjust arrest must not go unnoticed. It is time to make our voices heard to defend press freedom and ensure that journalists can practice their profession without fear of reprisals.
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Let’s make sure we support press freedom and protect journalists who courageously work to inform the public and defend democratic values.