The 14 days of detention of journalist Stany Bujakera aroused the indignation of many actors in Congolese and international society. Correspondent of Jeune Afrique and Deputy Publication Director of Actualite.cd, Bujakera was arrested for the propagation of false rumors and the dissemination of false information following the publication of an article attributed to the National Intelligence Agency. Although he did not sign the article in question, he is held responsible by the Congolese government.
This arrest was strongly criticized and denounced by numerous media, organizations and political and religious figures, as well as embassies. Many consider this detention an attack on press freedom and decry an attempt by the government to “burn the Bujakera pen”. In a country where press freedom is already weakened, this arrest risks further tarnishing the image of the Democratic Republic of Congo as a nation that respects freedom of expression.
On the side of the Congolese government, the Minister of Communication and Media says he is concerned by this arrest, but also emphasizes respect for the principle of separation of powers. Steps are being taken to secure Bujakera’s release, but it is essential to ensure judicial independence is preserved.
Stany Bujakera is a journalist with a large following on social networks, with more than 500,000 followers on Twitter. His detention therefore arouses a great outpouring of solidarity within the media community, who hope for his release. If this incarceration continues, it would be a blow to Bujakera’s career, as well as a loss for the national and international press.
It is necessary to remember that freedom of information is an essential pillar in democracies, where political alternation is possible, where powers and counter-powers are balanced, and where the independence of justice is guaranteed. . The DRC must therefore ensure that this fundamental right is preserved for the proper functioning of its democracy.
In conclusion, the detention of Stany Bujakera sparked a wave of indignation and support from many actors in Congolese and international society. It is essential to preserve press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo and to ensure that journalists can practice their profession safely and without fear of reprisals. Bujakera’s release is a wish shared by thousands of media professionals around the world.