The Observatory for Press Freedom in Africa (OLPA) recently expressed its indignation at the arrest of journalists in Mbandaka, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Around twenty journalists working for different local media outlets were arrested while participating in a rally to celebrate International Radio Day and protest against police violence suffered by media professionals.
These journalists were arrested by the local police and taken to the office of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR) in Mbandaka. They were questioned for several hours by local intelligence officials, who accused them of having disrupted public order by organizing a gathering without prior authorization. However, the journalists had a copy of acknowledgment of receipt from Mbandaka Town Hall, proving that they had obtained authorization for their gathering.
This mass arrest of press professionals is all the more worrying as it follows the brutal attack on journalist Mimi Etaka, provincial director of the public station RTNC. She was attacked in her office by a member of the close guard of the Governor of the province of Equateur, after refusing to issue an official press release. Following this attack, several members of the governor’s bodyguard were arrested and placed in detention.
These acts undermine freedom of the press, a fundamental right guaranteed both by Congolese legislation and international legal instruments relating to human rights. OLPA strongly condemns these arrests and this attack, and hopes that the judicial authorities will handle these cases impartially.
It is essential to guarantee freedom of the press and to protect journalists in the exercise of their profession. They play a crucial role in society by informing the public, providing them with reliable information and contributing to democratic debate. Journalists must be able to carry out their profession in complete safety and without fear of reprisals.
It is therefore essential that the Congolese authorities take concrete measures to guarantee the protection of journalists and punish those who attack or intimidate them. Respect for press freedom is essential to preserve democracy and guarantee a just and equitable society.
In a context where access to information is increasingly crucial, it is essential to support journalists and defend their work. The media plays a vital role in disseminating information and educating the public. By guaranteeing press freedom, we contribute to building an informed, open and democratic society.