Arrest of journalist Stanis Bujakera at N’djili airport in the Democratic Republic of Congo
On Friday, August 8, a shocking arrest took place at N’djili International Airport in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Stanis Bujakera, renowned journalist and deputy publishing director of ACTUALITE.CD, was arrested while trying to go to Lubumbashi in the Haut-Katanga province. This arrest sparked strong reactions from the media community and the public, demanding his immediate release.
Litsani Choukran, founder of the online media POLITICO.CD, expressed his dismay at the arrest, highlighting the climate of suspicion surrounding security services in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He emphasizes that journalists are already easy and cooperative targets of investigations, but it is imperative that these investigations be carried out without brutality or repression. He insists that media professionals agree to contribute to investigations to strengthen the nation and the State, but this should not be used as a pretext to repress or muzzle them.
Congolese authorities must find more appropriate ways to conduct their investigations, rather than resorting to arbitrary and unnecessary arrests. Stanis Bujakera, as a renowned journalist and correspondent for Jeune Afrique and Reuters, has made a valuable contribution to the profession and society. His arrest raises questions about the situation of press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo and calls for reflection on the measures taken to guarantee an environment conducive to the exercise of journalism.
Until now, the exact reasons for Stanis Bujakera’s arrest have not been disclosed by official authorities. However, it is essential that journalists can practice their profession without fear of intimidation or repression. Freedom of expression and freedom of the press are the pillars of a democratic society, and it is essential to preserve and protect them.
In conclusion, the arrest of journalist Stanis Bujakera at N’djili airport is a disturbing case that raises questions about press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is essential that the authorities find more legitimate ways to carry out their investigations, without resorting to repressive measures which could call into question this fundamental freedom. The immediate release of Stanis Bujakera is necessary to preserve the integrity of the journalistic profession and guarantee the voice of the media in Congolese democracy.