DRC: Plea for the release of Stany Bujakera and training of journalists during the electoral period
A delegation from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) recently visited the Democratic Republic of Congo to advocate for the release of Stany Bujakera, a journalist detained for two months. Led by the head of RSF’s Sub-Saharan Africa Bureau, the delegation also raised the issue of training media professionals during the electoral period.
During the audience with the Minister of Communication and Media, the RSF delegation stressed the need to drop all charges against Stany Bujakera and to release him immediately. This request is part of RSF’s official position in favor of the protection and freedom of journalists. The delegation also called for the dropping of charges against other journalists detained in the country.
In addition to the question of the release of Stany Bujakera, the RSF delegation addressed the project of training journalists during the electoral period. This project aims to provide equipment such as vests and first aid kits to journalists, with the aim of strengthening their safety and ability to cover electoral events. RSF stressed the importance of guaranteeing the reliability and credibility of information during electoral periods, given the violence and attacks that journalists often face.
The journalist training project will not be limited to the city of Kinshasa alone, but will also be extended to other cities such as Mbandaka, Goma and Lubumbashi. RSF stressed the need to involve all players in the media sector to ensure quality and unhindered electoral coverage.
This RSF visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo demonstrates the organization’s continued commitment to defending press freedom and the right to information. By advocating for the release of Stany Bujakera and offering training for journalists during the electoral period, RSF seeks to guarantee an environment conducive to the exercise of journalism and the dissemination of reliable and independent information.
In conclusion, the fight for press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains a major issue. The release of Stany Bujakera and the training of journalists during the electoral period are essential steps in protecting the rights of journalists and guaranteeing quality information for Congolese citizens.