Unfair detention of Stanis Bujakera: press freedom in the DRC threatened
The deputy publishing director of Actualité.cd, Stanis Bujakera, has currently been in detention for a week, raising serious concerns about press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Accused of spreading false rumors, using forgeries and distributing a false document, Bujakera faces charges arising from the new digital code.
His arrest was preceded by a search of his home and a check of his identity card and passport. Despite his commitment to respect any conditions that may be imposed on him, he remains incarcerated in Makala prison.
Bujakera’s lawyers argued for his provisional release during his hearing in council chambers. The peace court now has 48 hours to rule on this request, but Congolese justice rarely operates on Saturdays, which adds uncertainty as to the legal deadline.
This abusive detention raises major concerns about freedom of expression and the protection of journalists in the DRC. The journalism profession already faces many challenges in the country, including restrictions on press freedom and human rights abuses.
It is essential to remember that press freedom is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society, allowing transparency, public debate and accountability of political actors. The DRC must guarantee and protect freedom of expression and freedom of the press to promote an open, informed and democratic society.
At this time, it is important that the international community remains vigilant and expresses its support for journalists and independent media in the DRC. It is essential to condemn any form of intimidation, arbitrary arrest or censorship aimed at restricting freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
The detention of Stanis Bujakera is an alarming example of the challenges facing journalists in the DRC. It is time to break the silence and defend press freedom in the country in order to guarantee an environment conducive to the flourishing of democracy and pluralism of ideas.