The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) strongly condemns any form of harassment or intimidation against journalists, following threats made by Christian Bosembe, President of the CSAC (Le Conseil Supérieur de l’Audiovisuel et de la Communication (CSAC) , the body responsible for regulating media activities in DRC. On 30 January, Bosembe warned both national and international media covering the crisis in Goma, in eastern DRC, that they would face closure and sanctions if they provide a platform to the M23 movement or its supporters.
During a press briefing in Kinshasa on 30 January, CSAC urged media outlets to report on the ongoing conflict “with professionalism”, in order to avoid instilling fear among DRC’s inhabitants. Bosembe specifically cautioned that any media organisation offering airtime to M23 supporters, in an attempt to “justify the seizure of territory”, would be taken off the air. The M23, also known as the March 23 Movement or the Congolese Revolutionary Army, is a rebel group that has been operating in North Kivu Province since 2012.
Bosembe also criticised certain media houses, for allegedly amplifying calls for banditry, looting, and break-ins. He warned that those engaging in such reporting risk being shut down. CSAC reminded media professionals of their obligation to rely on official sources, when broadcasting war-related information. The regulatory body also imposed restrictions on discussions of Congolese military operations, stating that such topics could only be addressed in the presence of a military expert.
IFJ General Secretary, Anthony Bellanger, responded: “Journalists covering the crisis in Goma must uphold ethical journalism principles, while ensuring their own safety and that of all parties involved in the conflict. However, regulatory authorities should not interfere with reporting, unless ethical breaches occur. What we are witnessing here are clear attempts to suppress independent journalism, at a time when citizens urgently need access to information.”
The IFJ calls on the authorities in the DRC and all warring factions to uphold press freedom, as well as to ensure the safety and security of journalists during this critical period.
For more Information, please contact the IFJ - Africa Office
1st Floor, Maison de la Presse, 5 Rue X Corniche, Medina,
BP 64257, Dakar, Senegal
Tel: +221- 33 959 43 67 / 221 77 619 02 77