A Nigerian news outlet urges the release of its detained journalists in Mozambique amid growing concerns over press freedom and violence against media personnel. MISA demands an explanation for their arrest, following widespread protests that have left numerous casualties. The ongoing situation highlights significant repression faced by journalists in the region, worsened by tech shutdowns and economic disruptions linked to civil unrest.
A Nigerian news outlet has issued a statement advocating for the release of two of its journalists who went missing while covering anti-government protests in Maputo, Mozambique. Correspondent Bongani Siziba and cameraman Sbonelo Mkhasibe, along with Mozambican journalist Charles Mangwiro, were detained under unclear circumstances. News Central TV’s editor-in-chief Kayode Akintemi expressed concern over their detention while performing their professional duties, stating that efforts to reach the journalists have proven unsuccessful. The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) has condemned the detentions, demanding the “immediate and unconditional release” of the three journalists and a transparent explanation regarding their disappearance. MISA emphasized that journalism is not a crime and criticism of the government’s actions is necessary for democracy. This incident follows a series of violent confrontations with protesters in Mozambique where at least 30 individuals have lost their lives during government crackdowns on demonstrations that erupted after recent elections saw the ruling party claiming a controversial victory. Further compounding the issue of press freedom, two Portuguese journalists were recently expelled from Mozambique for allegedly lacking appropriate work visas. MISA has voiced increasing concern about the rising trend of aggression toward journalists, particularly in light of these ongoing protests. Additionally, digital rights organizations report multiple instances of internet shutdowns across Mozambique, affecting information dissemination during this turbulent period. Supporters of opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane recently obstructed traffic at important border crossings, raising tensions further. These events highlight the critical state of press freedom and civil liberties in Mozambique as external and internal pressures continue to mount against media workers and activists.
The current situation in Mozambique is characterized by escalating tensions following recent elections, where the ruling Frelimo party claimed victory amid allegations of voter rigging and widespread protests. Journalists have faced significant dangers while attempting to cover these events, with reports of assaults and detentions. MISA’s condemnation reflects broader international concerns regarding the safety of media personnel in the region, particularly amidst crackdowns on dissent, highlighted by the deaths of civilians during protests. The expulsion of foreign journalists compounds these challenges, indicating a concerning trend of diminishing press freedoms in Mozambique. Moreover, the infrastructural impact on trade with South Africa due to these protests illustrates the interconnectedness of political stability and economic health in the region.
The call for the release of detained journalists in Mozambique underscores a critical moment for press freedom in the country. With significant international attention being directed towards the adverse treatment of media workers and the increased violence against them, the situation requires prompt and decisive actions to uphold journalistic rights. For Mozambique to restore its international reputation and ensure fundamental freedoms, it is imperative that authorities respect and protect the rights of journalists and engage transparently with the issues that currently plague its political landscape.
Original Source: www.dw.com
