In the tumult of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a recent case highlights the challenges journalists face in practicing their profession safely. The incident took place in Wanga, a town in Watsa territory, where James Paluku, a journalist for Fatshimetrie, was violently attacked by two members of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on July 6, 2024.
This attack follows the journalist’s broadcast of information denouncing military harassment at Wanga checkpoints, where sums of money are extorted from citizens without voter cards. The attack on James Paluku resulted in his clothes being torn, demonstrating the violence and intimidation media workers face.
The Observatory for Press Freedom in Africa (OLPA) strongly condemned this act, highlighting the violation of the right to information and freedom of the press, essential foundations of a democratic society. The NGO urges the military authorities of Haut-Uélé to carry out a thorough investigation to identify and punish those responsible for this attack.
Beyond this isolated event, the incident highlights the daily risks to which journalists in the DRC are exposed, faced with political, economic and security pressures. In a country where press freedom is a major issue, each attack against a journalist is an attack on democracy and transparency.
As guarantors of information and freedom of expression, the media and journalists play an essential role in the consolidation of democracy and in the fight against corruption and impunity. Protecting their physical and professional integrity is therefore a priority to guarantee a pluralistic and informed public debate.
In conclusion, the James Paluku affair recalls the need to support and protect journalists in the exercise of their profession, ensuring respect for their freedom and security. Faced with the obstacles and threats that weigh on their work, it is imperative to defend press freedom as a fundamental pillar of any democratic society moving towards transparency and justice.