Press release – Release of journalist Stanislas Bujakera: a victory for press freedom
We are pleased to announce the release of journalist Stanislas Bujakera, deputy publishing director of Actualite.cd. After spending two nights in detention for refusing to reveal his sources, Stanislas Bujakera regained his freedom in a particularly anticipated decision.
This affair has caused great concern, both nationally and internationally. The United States, represented by Lucy Tamlin, ambassador to Kinshasa, expressed deep concern over the journalist’s detention. They stressed the importance of protecting press freedom and allowing journalists to practice their profession without fear of prosecution.
Civil society, both national and international, also mobilized by demanding the immediate release of Stanislas Bujakera. The Next Corp group, owner of actualite.cd, strongly supported this claim, denouncing what it describes as harassment of the journalist.
The release of Stanislas Bujakera is a victory for press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It recalls the importance of an environment conducive to the exercise of independent journalism, where journalists must not fear disclosing their sources to protect their ethical principles.
We salute the courageous and committed work of Stanislas Bujakera and all journalists who risk their freedom and safety to inform the public. Press freedom is an essential pillar of any democracy, and it is our duty to defend and protect it.
We hope that this release will mark a turning point in respect for the rights of journalists in the DRC. It is through dialogue, transparency and mutual respect that we can preserve and strengthen the democratic values to which we all aspire.
Stanislas Bujakera is now free, but this case serves as a clear reminder of the fragility of freedom of expression and the continued need to protect it. Let us continue to support journalists in the exercise of their noble profession and to work together for a more open, democratic and just society.
Together we can build a future where the free flow of information is guaranteed and journalists are respected as guardians of truth and transparency.
References :
– Press release from Lucy Tamlin, United States Ambassador to Kinshasa, available at [Insert press release link]
– Declaration from Congolese and international civil society, available on [Insert link to the declaration]
– Next corp press release, available on [Insert press release link]