Goma, November 27, 2024 – Press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in danger, highlighted by the direct threats against Djodjo Djamba, a renowned journalist working for the NURU FM radio station in Bunia, Ituri province.
Djodjo Djamba, also a journalist for Iturivision.net, was forced into hiding on November 27, 2024, fearing reprisals from a gang of youth from the PM camp, known for its urban banditry activities in the Lumumba neighborhood of the Mbunya commune. These individuals accuse the journalist of broadcasting, on November 18, 2024 during the 7 p.m. news, an interview with Mr. Amos Dhedi, a political figure from Bunia criticizing the actions of this group which threatens and extorts the property of innocent citizens.
This atmosphere of threat intensified with the assault, on November 25, 2024 at 6 p.m., of technician Oxygène Djabero of NURU FM radio. Mistaken for Djodjo Djamba, he was attacked and robbed of his belongings before being released with an explicit warning: “You’re lucky, go tell Djodjo Djamba that we are looking for him and that once in our hands, he will not get out alive.”
Faced with this alarming situation, the Observatory for Press Freedom in Africa (OLPA) has expressed its concerns, strongly condemning these threats that undermine press freedom. OLPA calls on the military authorities of Ituri to ensure the safety of NURU FM radio staff and to take measures to guarantee the protection of threatened journalists.
These events highlight the risks faced by journalists engaged in their mission to inform and defend the truth. They highlight the need to protect freedom of expression and ensure the safety of media professionals working in hostile environments.
As civil society and citizens, it is essential to support and protect those who risk their lives to report the reality and to defend democratic values. Media independence and press freedom are essential pillars of a democratic society where truth and transparency are paramount.
It is therefore crucial to condemn these acts of violence and threats, and to support journalists who, despite the risks, continue their mission of bearing witness and informing. Solidarity with media professionals in danger is a collective responsibility that demonstrates our commitment to freedom of expression and the defense of fundamental rights.