Stany Bujakera, a renowned journalist from the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been detained for several weeks. His arrest sparked strong reactions from numerous media, organizations and political figures, who denounced an attack on press freedom.
Bujakera, correspondent for Jeune Afrique and deputy publishing director of Actualite.cd, was arrested on charges of spreading false rumors and disseminating false information. However, it is important to note that the offending article was published by Jeune Afrique and not by Bujakera himself.
This article discussed an exclusive document attributed to the National Intelligence Agency, detailing the circumstances of the death of former Minister of Transport, Cherubin Okende. The editor of the article also mentioned the involvement of military intelligence in the assassination of the spokesperson for the Ensemble pour la République.
Bujakera’s arrest has raised concerns about press freedom in the DRC. Many national and international media consider this detention as an attack on freedom of expression and an attempt to muzzle the voice of Bujakera, known for his credible information and scoops.
The international community also mobilized to demand the release of Bujakera. Embassies, human rights organizations and religious figures expressed support for the journalist and called on Congolese authorities to respect press freedom.
In response to these criticisms, the Congolese government’s Minister of Communication and Media said efforts were underway to secure Bujakera’s release. However, this case raises questions about the independence of justice and the separation of powers in the DRC.
With more than 500,000 followers on Twitter, Bujakera is one of the most followed journalists in the DRC. His detention therefore represents a real mourning for the national and international press, and raises questions about the situation of press freedom in the country.
It is therefore essential that the Congolese authorities take measures to guarantee press freedom and the protection of journalists. The release of Bujakera would be a strong signal in favor of freedom of expression and democracy in the DRC.