Kinshasa, DRC – (African Boulevard News) – Journalist in Danger (JED), a prominent Congolese organization advocating for press freedom, expressed deep concern over the broken promises made by President Félix Tshisekedi regarding the safety and protection of journalists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The organization revealed that it had recorded more than 500 attacks against the media, resulting in the deaths of five journalists during Tshisekedi’s presidential mandate.
The alarming statistics reported by JED lay bare the harsh reality faced by journalists in the DRC. Their tireless pursuit of truth and their commitment to keeping the public informed comes at a great personal risk. The attacks against them not only infringe on their rights but also undermine the country’s democracy and hinder the progress of a free and independent press.
JED has called attention to the fact that these attacks reflect the ongoing impunity enjoyed by those responsible for the violence against journalists. The organization has repeatedly called on the Congolese authorities to take swift action and hold the perpetrators accountable. Unfortunately, their pleas seem to have fallen on deaf ears, as the attacks continue unabated.
In a statement, Tshivis Tshivuadi, the president of JED, said, “President Tshisekedi’s broken promises have left our journalists vulnerable and at the mercy of those who seek to silence them. It is a dark day for press freedom in the DRC.”
The current situation not only poses a threat to the safety of journalists but also has a chilling effect on the media landscape in the country. Fear and self-censorship have become prevalent, with journalists hesitating to report on sensitive issues for fear of reprisals. This inhibits the DRC’s progress in terms of transparency, accountability, and overall development.
The international community has also expressed concerns regarding the deteriorating press freedom situation in the DRC. Human rights organizations and media watchdogs have called for urgent action to address the attacks on journalists and to ensure their safety and protection. The global community is urging the Congolese government to fulfill its obligation to safeguard press freedom and to hold accountable those who threaten or harm journalists.
The broken promises of President Tshisekedi regarding the protection of journalists in the DRC have raised serious doubts about his commitment to press freedom and the rule of law. As attacks against the media persist, it is crucial for the Congolese authorities to take concrete steps to ensure the safety of journalists, investigate the attacks, and prosecute those responsible.
In this critical period for the DRC, the role of a free and independent press is paramount in promoting transparency, accountability, and democracy. It is imperative that the Congolese government upholds its duty to protect journalists and foster an environment where they can work without fear. Failure to do so not only erodes trust in the government but also hinders the country’s progress towards a brighter future.
