Title: Urgent release of journalist Stanis Bujakera: General mobilization to defend press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Introduction :
The fate of Congolese journalist Stanis Bujakera has caused serious concern among human rights organizations and journalists’ movements in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While he was arrested in questionable conditions and placed in detention, many voices are being raised to demand his immediate and unconditional release. The Rally of Journalists for the Emergence of Congo (RAJEC) is one of these organizations mobilized to defend press freedom and put an end to attacks on the journalistic profession.
Judicial harassment and precarious detention conditions:
According to RAJEC, Stanis Bujakera was arrested in conditions that violate the country’s laws. His tormentors seem determined to keep him in prison, despite all violations of legal and ethical rights. Indeed, the journalist is detained in precarious and degrading prison conditions, and he was recently transferred to the Gombe public prosecutor’s office, with the apparent aim of having him incarcerated in Makala prison.
A witch hunt against journalists:
RAJEC denounces this affair as a tragic illustration of the witch hunt launched against journalists in the DRC. While the country is going through a historic period, where the independent press and professional journalists should play an essential role, the latter continue to suffer constant harassment and increasing marginalization. Editorial offices are forced to close, while press freedom is constantly threatened.
Protection of the journalistic source:
RAJEC recalls that the journalist must under no circumstances disclose his source, and demands that Stanis Bujakera be released unconditionally for having respected the ethical and legal principles of the profession. The compulsion to reveal one’s sources constitutes a flagrant violation of press freedom and endangers the safety of journalists and their informants.
Mobilization for the release of Stanis Bujakera:
Faced with this unacceptable situation, RAJEC is launching a call for widespread solidarity and plans to organize large-scale demonstrations if the journalist is not released within 72 hours. This mobilization aims to raise public awareness of the seriousness of the situation and to put increased pressure on the authorities to ensure the release of Stanis Bujakera.
Conclusion :
The detention of journalist Stanis Bujakera in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a worrying example of attacks on press freedom in the country. RAJEC and many other organizations are mobilizing to assert the fundamental principles of the journalistic profession and demand the immediate and unconditional release of the journalist. Press freedom is an essential pillar of any democracy, and it is crucial to defend the rights of journalists to inform and protect their sources. The situation of Stanis Bujakera must serve as an urgent call to action to ensure a safe and conducive environment for the practice of journalism in the DRC.