Madagascar: FAJ Express Concern about the Use of the Media to Solve Political Problems

The Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), African Regional Organization of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), is concerned about the frequency of violations on press freedom and the deplorable tendency of political actors to take journalists and the media as scapegoats to solve their f political problems.

These tendencies have manifested themselves especially after the pending detention of  journalists Didier Ravoahangison, Director of the private radio station, Fahazavana, which is close to deposed President Marc Ravalomanana and Lolo Ratsimba, organizer of the popular programme, “Ampenjiky”  both of whom areheld at the prison in Antanimora since January 8, 2010.

“It is really regrettable that at the time when the international community is seeking a peaceful and durable outcome to the Malagasy crisis, the parties in conflict are seeking to solve their political problems by using the media” declared Omar Faruk Osman, FAJ President. “All the concerned parties must ensure the safety of the media and allowl journalists do their work freely and without hindrance in order to restore stability and democratic governance” he added.

Since the beginning of the arm wrestling between the ex -President Marc Ravalomanana and the current chief of the transitional authority, Andry Rajoelina, media houses have been regularly attacked, and destroyed. Since 2008 many journalists have been are threatened, intimidated, beaten and wounded culminating in the    murder of Ando Ratovonirina, a reporter of RTA on February 7, 2009.

It is widely believed that the closing of Radio Viva which is close to Rajoelina, and Radio Mada which is close to Ravalomanana; the firing and the destruction of the buildings of the State Radio and Television, suspension of five newspapers (Tribune de Madagascar, Inona Ny Vaovao, Midi Madagascar, Gazeliko and Midi Flash) and all these regrettable events were punctuated by threats and real aggressions against many journalists.

The continuous pending detention of our colleagues is unacceptable” added Osman.

FAJ demands that the Malagasy authorities release immediately and unconditionally our two colleagues, and calls on all political actors to ensure both the safety and the protection of journalists and media houses so that press freedom and freedom of expression in this country will be respected.

For more information contact  +221 33 867 95 87  +221 33 867 95 87
The FAJ represents over 50,000 journalists in 36 countries in Africa

- February 2, 2010 by FAJ

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Source: africa.ifj.org/en/articles/faj-express-concern-about-the-use-of-the-media-to-solve-political-problems-in-madagascar (accessed on 04.02.10)