Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Burundi Times
Published on 2024-04-18 12:18:27
Sandra Muhoza, a journalist working for a local media house in Burundi, was arrested on Saturday, April 13th, 2024, as reported by various media professional organizations such as the Burundi Press House and the Association of Female Journalists in Burundi. These organizations issued a joint statement expressing their concern about the deprivation of liberty of journalist Sandra Muhoza, who is currently in the custody of the intelligence services. They called for transparency in the investigation and emphasized the importance of press freedom, especially with World Press Freedom Day approaching.
Ms. Muhoza is a journalist for La Nova, an online media platform. Reports suggest that she engaged in a sensitive discussion with colleagues on a WhatsApp group, which was deemed inappropriate by some members of the community. Calls for her release and support from fellow journalists have been made, urging unity and solidarity within the journalism community.
As of April 18, 2024, Burundian authorities have not commented on the case of Sandra Muhoza, leaving the situation unresolved. The lack of response from the authorities has raised concerns about the state of press freedom in Burundi and the treatment of journalists by the government.
The arrest of Sandra Muhoza highlights the challenges faced by journalists in carrying out their work in environments where freedom of the press is restricted. It underscores the importance of protecting journalists and upholding their rights to report on issues of public interest without fear of reprisal or censorship.
The international community has also been urged to pay attention to the case of Sandra Muhoza and to advocate for her release and the protection of press freedom in Burundi. The role of journalists in promoting democracy, accountability, and transparency cannot be understated, and their work should be supported and defended by governments and civil society alike.
The case of Sandra Muhoza serves as a reminder of the risks faced by journalists in their line of work and the vital role they play in informing the public and holding power to account. It underscores the need for continued efforts to protect and promote press freedom globally, as well as the importance of solidarity among journalists in the face of adversity.
Read the original article on Burundi Times
