Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-04-03 09:53:59
April 2, 2024 (WASHINGTON) – The U.S State Department has expressed dissatisfaction with South Sudan’s recent report on the death of journalist Christopher Allen, stating that it fails to comprehensively address all factors leading to his death and the disrespectful treatment of his remains.
Christopher Allen, a dual U.S. and UK citizen, was shot and killed while reporting on the conflict in South Sudan on August 26, 2017. Last month, the South Sudan government released the findings of a long-awaited investigation into his death, attributing it to being caught in crossfire while covering the civil war in Kaya, a town near the Ugandan border.
The U.S State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, criticized the South Sudanese government’s report, calling for a more credible investigation and urging the transitional government to demonstrate a serious commitment to accountability.
Despite South Sudan’s assertion that Allen’s death was not intentional, concerns remain about the handling of the incident and the lack of accountability for those responsible. The U.S State Department’s statement highlights the need for a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure justice for Christopher Allen.
The treatment of journalists in South Sudan remains a significant concern, with the country ranking 118th out of 180 countries on RSF’s 2023 World Press Freedom Index. The low ranking reflects ongoing challenges faced by reporters and media organizations in the country, including intimidation, harassment, and censorship.
The case of Christopher Allen serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists reporting from conflict zones, and the importance of upholding press freedom and protecting the rights of media professionals. The U.S State Department’s call for a credible investigation into his death underscores the need for accountability and justice in cases where journalists are targeted or harmed in the line of duty.
As the international community continues to press for answers and accountability in the case of Christopher Allen, the spotlight remains on South Sudan’s commitment to upholding human rights and protecting the freedom of the press. It is essential that the transitional government takes concrete steps to address these concerns and ensure that journalists can work safely and independently in the country.
The legacy of Christopher Allen and his dedication to reporting on conflict zones serve as a reminder of the vital role played by journalists in shedding light on the realities of war and conflict. His tragic death should not be in vain, and it is imperative that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The U.S State Department’s call for a credible investigation is a step towards ensuring justice for Christopher Allen and upholding the rights of journalists worldwide.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
