SUSCRIBETE MEDIANTE ESTE ENLACE A PERIODISTAS CONTRA EL CRIMEN

Suscribirte a RED MUNDIAL PERIODISTAS CONTRA EL CRIMEN ORGANIZADO Y LA CORRUPCIÓN
Correo electrónico:
Consultar este grupo

miércoles, junio 20, 2007

BRAZIL Bulletin (university professor convicted of defamation; his one-year prison sentence reduced to community service)

IFEX - News from the international freedom of expression community
_______________________________________________________________

ALERT - BRAZIL

20 June 2007

University professor convicted of defamation; his one-year prison sentence
reduced to community service

SOURCE: ARTICLE 19, London

(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) - The following is a 15 June 2007 ARTICLE 19 press
release:

University professor sentenced to one year in prison for defamation will
have his appeal reviewed in court today

Professor Emir Sader was sentenced in October 2006 to one year in prison
for an article published online in May 2005, in which he accuses Senator
Jorge Bornhausen of being elitist, bourgeois, fascist and racist. He was
also dismissed from his position as a professor with the Federal University
of Rio de Janeiro.

"ARTICLE 19 urges the São Paulo Court to abide by Brazil's international
obligations in the area of freedom of expression and acquit Professor
Sader. Criminal defamation is an unjustifiable limitation on freedom of
expression, particularly when it results in excessive and disproportional
sanctions as in the case of Professor Sader," said Dr. Agnes Callamard,
executive director of ARTICLE 19.

During a seminar with entrepreneurs in August 2005, Senator Bornhausen was
asked if he was unhappy with the political crisis then faced by the
country, to which he replied that, on the contrary, he was happy because
"we would be free from this race for the next 30 years", referring, as he
later confirmed, to politicians from the Worker's Party (President Lula's
party).

In response to this statement, Professor Sader published an article on the
website of the news agency Carta Maior (where he is a columnist) in which
he accused Senator Bornhausen in the terms above mentioned. Reacting
against the article, Mr. Bornhausen filed a criminal defamation lawsuit
against the professor, based on the defamation provisions of the 1967 Press
Law. After reviewing the case the judge sentenced Professor Sader to the
maximum sanction foreseen for defamation in the Press Law and, in addition,
held that Mr. Sader had taken advantage of his position as a well-known
university professor and had abused his position as civil servant. As a
consequence, the judge also sentenced Professor Sader to dismissal from his
position as a professor with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. The
prison sentence was converted (due to compulsory legal provisions) to
community service for 8 hours a day for the same period. The judge stressed
that the plaintiff's prominent position as a Senator should be taken into
consideration when analysing the case, increasing the "wrongdoing" caused
by the published offenses.

Today, the São Paulo Court will review the appeals in the case. Both
plaintiff and defendant, as well as the Public Prosecutor's Office, have
questioned the judge's decision.

ARTICLE 19 considers criminal defamation to constitute an unjustifiable
limitation on freedom of expression. This position is shared by the OAS
Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, who has stated that
"(c)riminal defamation is not a justifiable restriction on freedom of
expression; all criminal defamation laws should be abolished and replaced,
where necessary, with appropriate civil defamation laws."

ARTICLE 19 also disagrees with the judge's arguments concerning the
application of greater protection to the reputation of public officials
such as elected senators. International human rights courts have
consistently held that public officials should tolerate more, not less,
criticism than ordinary citizens. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights,
for example, stated that:

"(I)t is logical and appropriate that statements concerning public
officials and other Individuals who exercise functions of a public nature
should be accorded, in the terms of Article 13(2) of the Convention, a
certain latitude in the broad debate on matters of public interest that is
essential for the functioning of a truly democratic system . . . A
different threshold of protection should be applied, which is not based on
the nature of the subject, but on the characteristic of public interest
inherent in the activities or acts of a specific individual. Those
individuals who have an influence on matters of public interest have laid
themselves open voluntarily to a more intense public scrutiny and,
consequently, in this domain, they are subject to a higher risk of being
criticized, because their activities go beyond the private sphere and
belong to the realm of public debate."

ARTICLE 19 is an independent human rights organisation that works globally
to protect and promote the right to freedom of expression. It takes its
name from Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which
guarantees free speech.

For further information, contact ARTICLE 19, 6-8 Amwell Street, London,
EC1R 1UQ, U.K., tel: +44 20 7278 9292, fax: +44 20 7278 7660, e-mail:
info@article19.org, Internet: http://www.article19.org

The information contained in this alert is the sole responsibility of
ARTICLE 19. In citing this material for broadcast or publication, please
credit ARTICLE 19.
_______________________________________________________________
DISTRIBUTED BY THE INTERNATIONAL FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
EXCHANGE (IFEX) CLEARING HOUSE
555 Richmond St. West, # 1101, PO Box 407
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 3B1
tel: +1 416 515 9622 fax: +1 416 515 7879
alerts e-mail: alerts@ifex.org general e-mail: ifex@ifex.org
Internet site: http://www.ifex.org/
_______________________________________________________________


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Sri Lanka (FMM coordinating international mission by IFJ, IPI and RSF to investigate decline in media freedom)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Free Media Movement (FMM), sunanda@cpalanka.org

Press release

18th June 2007, Colombo, Sri Lanka: In the context of a significant erosion
of human rights and media freedom in Sri Lanka, an International Press
Freedom and Freedom of Expression Mission to Sri Lanka will takes place
from 18 - 23 June 2007 following up the work and recommendations of the
first mission in October 2006. During its sojourn in Sri Lanka, the mission
will look into reasons for the disturbing decline in media freedom and draw
up concrete recommendations to support the development of professional
journalism within an enabling political environment.

Eleven international press freedom organisations constitute the mission,
including representatives from the International Federation of Journalists
(IFJ), International Media Support (IMS), International Press Institute
(IPI) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The mission will visit Jaffna,
the Northern Province and Ampara in Eastern Province in order to obtain
first hand information on the prevailing ground conditions and the impact
of the escalation of hostilities on media and journalists.

Members of the mission will participate in the series of discussions with
government leaders and officials, political party leaders including the
Leader of the Opposition, media community including Editors, human rights
organizations and the diplomatic community.

Sri Lanka Working Journalists' Association (SLWJA), Federation of Media
Employees Trade Unions (FMETU), Free Media Movement (FMM), Sri Lanka Tamil
Media Alliance (SLTMA) and the Sri Lanka Muslim Media Forum (SLMMF)
together with Sri Lanka Press Institute (SLPI) and Sri Lanka Media
Commission will host the mission jointly. The mission is coordinated by the
FMM.

The mission visited Sri Lanka in October 2006 and produced Press Freedom
and Freedom of Expression in Sri Lanka- Struggle for survival. This is the
first follow-up mission that will focus on advocacy for Freedom of
Expression rights based on this report in light of recent developments.

The mission will hold a press conference on 22nd June at 10.30am at Galle
Face Hotel, Colombo.

Thomas Hughes from International Media Support, David Dadge from
International Press Institute, Jacqui Park from International Federation of
Journalists, Vincent Brossel from Reporters Sans Frontières, Sukumar
Muralidharan from International Federation of Journalists - South Asia and
Surendra Nihal Singh from the South Asia Media Commission will take part in
the press conference.

Sunanda Deshapriya – 0777 312457
Convenor
Free Media Movement

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of FMM**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

THE GAMBIA Bulletin (MFWA sues government at ECOWAS Court over "disappeared" journalist)

THE GAMBIA: MFWA sues government at ECOWAS Court over "disappeared"
journalist
GAMBIE: La MFWA porte plainte contre le gouvernement auprès de la Cour de
la CEDEAO pour la "disparition" d'un journaliste

IFEX - News from the international freedom of expression community
_________________________________________________________________

UPDATE - THE GAMBIA

20 June 2007

MFWA sues government at ECOWAS Court over "disappeared" journalist

SOURCE: Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), Accra

**Updates IFEX alerts of 26 February and 18 January 2007, 18 October, 19
and 17 July 2006**

(MFWA/IFEX) - The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of
West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, Nigeria has issued a hearing notice
for a suit filed against the Republic of Gambia by the Media Foundation for
West Africa (MFWA) on behalf of a "disappeared" Gambian journalist, Chief
Ebrima Manneh, reporter of pro-government Banjul-based "Daily Observer"
newspaper.

This follows an application filed on behalf of the journalist by MFWA
through its Journalists' Legal Defence Programme. The application seeks an
order from the sub-regional court to compel the government of President
Yahya Jammeh to immediately release Chief Manneh and compensate him
adequately.

The court has fixed July 10, 2007 for the hearing. The date coincides with
the eve of the first anniversary of Manneh's arrest and incarceration.
Colleagues of Manneh witnessed his arrest by two plain-clothed personnel of
the notorious political police, the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), at
the "Daily Observer's" premises on July 11, 2006. But the government and
police claim they do not know the whereabouts of Manneh. Simply, he is
"disappeared".

The writ, filed by Nigerian human rights lawyer Femi Falana, a member of
the MFWA Legal Defence Network, said that the arrest of Manneh without
warrant and his continual detention is unlawful and a violation of his
right as guaranteed under Articles 4, 5 and 7 of the African Charter on
Human and People's Rights. It also violates Article 6 of the African
Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights which guarantees his right to personal
liberty.

The Gambian government has blatantly refused several requests from human
rights groups to either release or charge Manneh if he has committed any
offence.

In a reaction to the continuous demands for the release of Manneh, the
Gambia Police Force, after eight months of the journalist's disappearance,
on 21 February 2007 officially denied ever arresting him and urged the
general public to furnish it with any "relevant" information about him.
MFWA sources have indicated earlier that, after his arrest, Manneh was
detained variously at the NIA Headquarters, Mile Two Central Prison,
Kartong Police Station, Sibanor Police Station, Kuntaur Police Station, and
then at Fatoto Police Station, where he was last spotted after 188 days
incommunicado.

Gambian media practitioners have been subjected to unlawful arrests,
detentions, murder, and closure of newspapers resulting in several
journalists escaping into exile. Those who have chosen to remain in the
country practice self-censorship as a means of protection.

The MFWA and the Network of African Freedom of Expression Organizations
(NAFEO) have launched a campaign to end the impunity and attacks on free
expression in the Gambia, and have published a 63-page dossier of press
freedom abuses since President Jammeh came to power in 1994.

The MFWA is a regional independent, non-profit, non-governmental
organization based in Accra. It was founded in 1997 to defend and promote
the rights and freedom of the media and all forms of expression.

For further information, contact Jeannette Quarcoopome, Media Foundation
for West Africa, 30 Duade Street, Kokomlemle, P.O. Box LG 730, Legon,
Ghana, tel: +233 21 24 24 70, fax: +231 21 22 10 84, e-mail:
events@mfwaonline.org, Internet: http://www.mfwaonline.org

The information contained in this update is the sole responsibility of
MFWA. In citing this material for broadcast or publication, please credit
MFWA.
_________________________________________________________________
DISTRIBUTED BY THE INTERNATIONAL FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
EXCHANGE (IFEX) CLEARING HOUSE
555 Richmond St. West, # 1101, PO Box 407
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 3B1
tel: +1 416 515 9622 fax: +1 416 515 7879
alerts e-mail: alerts@ifex.org general e-mail: ifex@ifex.org
Internet site: http://www.ifex.org/
_________________________________________________________________
IFEX - Nouvelles de la communauté internationale de défense de la liberté
d'expression
_________________________________________________________________

MISE À JOUR - GAMBIE

Le 20 juin 2007

La MFWA porte plainte contre le gouvernement auprès de la Cour de la CEDEAO
pour la "disparition" d'un journaliste

SOURCE: Fondation des Médias pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest (MFWA), Accra

**Mise à jour d'alertes de l'IFEX du 26 février et 18 janvier 2007, 18
octobre, 19 et 17 juillet 2006**

(MFWA/IFEX) - La Cour Communautaire de Justice de la Communauté Economique
des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (CEDEAO) basée à Abuja, au Nigéria a
donné un avis d'audition du procès intenté contre la République de la
Gambie par la Fondation des Médias pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest (MFWA) au nom
du journaliste gambien "disparu", Chief Ebrima Manneh, reporter au "Daily
Observer", un journal progouvernemental basé à Banjul.

Cette action fait suite à la demande déposée au nom du journaliste par la
MFWA, à travers son programme de défense juridique destiné aux
journalistes. Elle demande à la Cour sous-régionale de donner une
injonction qui pourrait contraindre le gouvernement du Président Yahya
Jammeh à libérer immédiatement Chief Manneh et à le dédommager de manière
adéquate.

La Cour a fixé l'audition au 10 juillet 2007. Cette date coïncide avec la
veille de l'anniversaire de l'arrestation et de l'incarcération de Manneh.
Certains collègues de Manneh ont été témoins de son arrestation par deux
agents en tenue civile de la redoutable Agence Nationale des Renseignements
(NIA) autour des locaux du "Daily Observer", le 11 juillet 2006. Toutefois,
le gouvernement et la police prétendent qu'ils ne savent pas où se trouve
Manneh. Il a simplement disparu.

Selon l'acte judiciaire déposé par l'avocat nigérian des droits humains
Femi Falana, un membre du Réseau de défense juridique de la MFWA,
l'arrestation de Manneh et son incarcération constituent des actes illégaux
et une violation de ses droits garantis par les articles 4, 5 et 7 de la
Charte Africaine des Droits de l'Homme et des Peuples qui garantit son
droit à la liberté personnelle.

Le gouvernement gambien a rejeté de manière flagrante plusieurs requêtes
des structures de défense des droits humains lui demandant de libérer
Manneh ou de le poursuivre en justice s'il a commis une infraction
quelconque.

En réaction aux demandes continues de la libération de Manneh, la police
gambienne a, le 21 février 2007, soit huit mois après la disparition du
journaliste, officiellement nié l'avoir jamais arrêté et exhorté le public
à lui fournir toute information "pertinente" le concernant.

Les sources de la MFWA ont déjà indiqué qu'après son arrestation, Manneh a
été successivement détenu au Quartier Général de la NIA, à la prison
centrale de Mile Two ainsi qu'aux postes de police de Kartong, de Sibanor
et de Kauntaur. Ensuite, il a été envoyé au poste de police de Fatoto où il
a été aperçu pour la première fois, après avoir été gardé au secret pendant
188 jours.

Les professionnels des médias de la Gambie ont fait l'objet d'arrestations,
de détentions, d'assassinats et de fermetures illégales de leurs locaux.
Ceci a obligé plusieurs d'entre eux à partir en exil. Ceux qui sont restés
s'autocensurent pour se protéger.

La MFWA et le Réseau des Organisations de Défense de la Liberté
d'Expression (NAFEO) ont lancé une campagne en vue de mettre fin à
l'impunité et aux agressions perpétrées contre la liberté d'expression en
Gambie et ont publié un dossier de 63 pages sur les abus de la liberté de
presse depuis que le Président Jammeh est parvenu au pouvoir en 1994.

La MFWA est une organisation régionale, indépendante, non gouvernementale à
but non lucratif basée à Accra. Elle a été fondée en 1997 pour défendre et
promouvoir les droits et libertés des médias ainsi que toute forme
d'expression.

Pour tout renseignement complémentaire, veuillez contacter Jeannette
Quarcoopome, Fondation des Médias pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest, 30 Duade
Street, Kokomlemle, P.O. Box LG 730, Legon, Ghana, tél: +233 21 24 24 70,
téléc: +231 21 22 10 84, courrier électronique: events@mfwaonline.org,
Internet: http://www.mfwaonline.org

MFWA est responsable de toute information contenue dans cette mise à jour.
En citant cette information, prière de bien vouloir l'attribuer à MFWA.
_______________________________________________________________
DIFFUSÉ(E) PAR LE SECRÉTARIAT DU RÉSEAU IFEX,
L'ÉCHANGE INTERNATIONAL DE LA LIBERTÉ D'EXPRESSION
555, rue Richmond Ouest, Bureau 1101, B.P. 407
Toronto (Ontario) M5V 3B1 Canada
tél: +1 416 515 9622 téléc: +1 416 515 7879
courrier électronique: alerts@ifex.org boîte générale: ifex@ifex.org
site Internet: http://www.ifex.org/
_______________________________________________________________


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Mexico (IAPA calls for full investigation into attack on journalist in Oaxaca)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Inter American Press Association (IAPA), data@sipiapa.org

The English version follows. La versión en inglés se encuentra más abajo.

Solicita la SIP exhaustiva investigación en atentado contra periodista en
Oaxaca, México

Miami (15 de junio de 2007).- La Sociedad Interamericana de Prensa (SIP) se
mostró preocupada por el atentado contra Misael Sánchez Sarmiento,
reportero del diario El Tiempo, de Oaxaca, México, incidente que se suma a
numerosos hechos de violencia ocurridos en el país en los últimos meses.

El 12 de junio Sánchez Sarmiento, reportero del área política del periódico
El Tiempo de Oaxaca, recibió tres disparos de bala por parte de un
desconocido cuando se encontraba frente a su casa. El periodista, herido en
el rostro y una pierna, fue sometido a una intervención quirúrgica y aunque
se encuentra estable no ha podido prestar declaración, dijo Luis Ramírez
Hernández, coordinador general de información del diario, en entrevista con
la Unidad de Respuesta Rápida de la SIP en México. Se desconoce el móvil
del atentado.

"Es fundamental que las autoridades investiguen el atentado de manera
exhaustiva y expedida para conocer las causas e identificar a los
responsables. Es una necesidad en México donde observamos que las
diferencias de opinión parecieran resolverse con la agresión", expresó
Gonzalo Marroquín, presidente de la Comisión de Libertad de Prensa e
Información, quien destacó que México se ha convertido en el país en el que
es más peligroso el ejercicio periodístico.

Sánchez Sarmiento tiene 15 años de experiencia en el ejercicio periodístico
y es fundador de El Tiempo. El periodista tuvo bajo su responsabilidad la
cobertura de las movilizaciones sociales registradas en Oaxaca hace unos
meses. También ha dado seguimiento a las indagaciones por el asesinato de
Bradley Roland Will, camarógrafo y documentalista estadounidense del portal
electrónico Indymedia. El crimen ocurrió el 27 de octubre de 2006 durante
un enfrentamiento entre autoridades de Oaxaca y el grupo social Asamblea
Popular de los Pueblos de Oaxaca (APPO).

En diciembre pasado Sánchez Sarmiento fue amenazado por una persona que
alegó que información confiada al periodista y publicada en el diario sobre
el asesinato de Will, ponía en riesgo su vida. La nota implicó a un
activista de la APPO en el asesinato del periodista estadounidense.

En lo que va del año han sido asesinados en México los siguientes
periodistas: Saúl Martínez Ortega de Sonora y Amado Ramírez de Guerrero;
mientras sigue desaparecido Rodolfo Rincón Taracena de Tabasco. También se
han registrado numeroso "levantotes" o secuestros momentáneos como método
de intimidación contra periodistas en diferentes partes del país.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IAPA calls for full investigation into attack on journalist in Oaxaca,
Mexico

MIAMI, Florida (June 15, 2007)—The Inter American Press Association (IAPA)
today expressed concern at an attack on Misael Sánchez Sarmiento, a
reporter for the Oaxaca, Mexico, newspaper El Tiempo, the latest in a
series of violent incidents in the country in recent months.

On July 12 Sánchez Sarmiento, who covers the police beat for the newspaper
in Oaxaca in southern Mexico, was shot at three times outside his home by
an unidentified assailant. Wounded in the face and leg, he underwent
surgery and although stable, he has been unable to make a statement to
police, Luis Ramírez Hernández, the newspaper's news editor, said in an
interview with the IAPA's Rapid Response Unit in Mexico. The motive for the
attack was not immediately known.

"It is essential that the authorities investigate the assault exhaustively
and promptly to establish the causes and identify those responsible. This
is must in Mexico, where differences of opinion are often resolved through
aggression," declared Gonzalo Marroquín, chairman of the IAPA's Committee
on Freedom of the Press and Information, adding that Mexico has become the
most dangerous country in which to be a reporter.

Sánchez Sarmiento has been a journalist for 15 years and was the founder of
El Tiempo. He was responsible for coverage of street demonstrations in
Oaxaca several months ago. He has also followed up inquiries into the
murder of Bradley Roland Will, an American cameraman and documentary maker
for the Web site Indymedia, he was killed on October 27 last year during
clashes between Oaxaca police and members of the self-styled Popular
Assembly of the Peoples of Oaxaca (APPO) group.

Last December Sánchez Sarmiento was received threats from a person who
claimed that his own life was at stake because of the newspaper's report of
information he had given confidentially about Will's death. The report
implicated an APPO activist in the murder.

So far this year, journalists killed in Mexico have been Saúl Martínez
Ortega of Sonora state and Amado Ramírez of Guerrero, while Rodolfo Rincón
Taracena of Tabasco has gone missing. There have also been numerous reports
of short-term kidnappings carried out to intimidate journalists around the
country.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

InterAmerican Press Association • 1801 SW 3 Ave • Miami • FL • 33129

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of IAPA**
**Esta información es responsabilidad de la SIP**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Colombia (RSF shocked as regional radio station founder murdered)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Reporters Without Borders (RSF), ameriques@rsf.org

The English version follows. La versión en inglés se encuentra más abajo.


Reporteros sin Fronteras
Comunicado de prensa
15 de junio de 2007

COLOMBIA

ASESINADO A DISPAROS EL FUNDADOR DE UNA EMISORA DE RADIO REGIONAL,
ENSEGUIDA HAN DETENIDO A DOS SOSPECHOS

Reporteros sin Fronteras manifiesta horror y tristeza ante el anuncio del
asesinato de Garrid Muñoz Tello, de 68 años, fundador de la emisora de
radio La Voz del Cinaruco, ocurrido el 14 de junio de 2007. Dos personas
dispararon sobre el periodista cuando iba en su coche, en los alrededores
de Villavicencio (Departamento de Meta, Centro).

"A pesar de que la situación de la libertad de prensa sigue siendo
enormemente crítica en Colombia, los asesinatos de periodistas han tenido
tendencia a disminuir en estos últimos años. La muerte de Garrid Muñoz
Tello viene a recordar que el país sigue siendo uno de los más peligrosos
del mundo para la prensa. Naturalmente nos alegramos de la inmediata
captura de sus presuntos asesinos. Exigimos que se diga si el móvil tenía
alguna relación con la actividad profesional de la víctima", ha declarado
Reporteros sin Fronteras.

En la noche del 14 de junio, cuando iba a volante de su automóvil, Garrid
Muñoz Tello fue abordado por un hombre y una mujer armados que
inmediatamente efectuaron varios disparos sobre él. La policía anunció
enseguida la captura y encarcelamiento de dos personas.


El periodista asesinado era conocido por sus feroces ataques a algunos
políticos locales, y a los grupos armados. "Garrid Muñoz Tello nunca dudó
en decir la verdad a sus interlocutores. A veces lo hacía con ese
espléndido sentido del humor que le caracterizaba, y que ahora nos falta, y
a veces lo hacía con un tono mucho más serio e incisivo", ha declarado la
redacción de La Voz del Cinaruco a la Agencia France-Presse.

La sede de La Voz del Cinaruco está situada en el Departamento de Arauca
(Este), fronterizo con Venezuela, donde causan estragos las guerrillas de
las Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC) y del Ejército de
Liberación Nacional (ELN, actualmente en conversaciones de paz con el
gobierno), y algunos paramilitares de extrema derecha que se han negado a
desmovilizarse. También hay un comando de élite del ejército norteamericano
que presta apoyo a las fuerzas armadas colombianas en la lucha contra la
guerrilla y la protección de un oleoducto petrolero, propiedad de la
multinacional norteamericana Occidental Petroleum, que atraviesa el
territorio. El departamento es también uno de los puntos de paso del
narcotráfico.

Garrid Muñoz Tello es el primer periodista colombiano asesinado desde el
comienzo del año 2007.
__________________________

COLOMBIA
15 June 2007

Regional radio station founder murdered, two suspects quickly arrested

Reporters Without Borders today voiced shock and sadness in reaction to the
murder yesterday of Garrid Muñoz Tello, aged 68, founder of radio La Voz
del Cinaruco, who was gunned down by a man and a woman as he drove his car
in Villavicencio, in the central department of Meta. Police quickly said
they had arrested and detained two people.

"While the state of press freedom has remained highly critical in Colombia,
murders of journalists have tended to decrease in recent years," the
worldwide press freedom organisation said. "The death of Garrid Muñoz Tello
is a reminder that this country is still one of the most dangerous in the
world for the press."

"Naturally, we are pleased at the immediate arrest of his suspected
killers. We very much need to know if their motives were linked to their
victim's work," it added.

The murdered journalist was a fierce critic of several local politicians
and armed groups. "Garrid Muñoz Tello was never afraid to tell the truth.
Sometimes he did it with a radiant sense of humour that was typical of him,
which we will miss from now on, and sometimes much more seriously and
incisively," editorial staff at La Voz del Cinaruco told Agence
France-Presse.

The headquarters of La Voz del Cinaruco is based in the eastern department
of Arauca on the border with Venezuela, which is rife with guerrillas from
the Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARC), the National Liberation
Army (ELN), currently in peace talks with the government, and extreme-right
para-militaries, which have refused to disarm.

A US Army elite commando is currently working with Colombian armed forces
in the struggle against guerrillas and to protect an oil pipeline, which
transits the area, owned by North American multinational, Occidental
Petroleum. The department is also on a notorious drugs route

Garrid Muñoz Tello was the first Colombian journalist to be murdered since
the start of 2007.


-- Benoît Hervieu
Despacho Américas / Americas desk
Reporters sans frontières
5, rue Geoffroy-Marie
75009 Paris - France

tél. : +33 (0) 1 44 83 84 68
fax : +33 (0) 1 45 23 11 51
e-mail : ameriques@rsf.org
/ americas@rsf.org
www.rsf.org
www.leblogmedias.com (en français)

**Esta información es responsabilidad de del RSF**
**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of RSF**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Turkey (RSF condemns decision to prosecute journalists for "insulting Turkish identity")

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Reporters Without Borders (RSF), afrique@rsf.org

La version française suit. The French version follows.

TURKEY

Murdered newspaper editor's son and three other journalists charged with
"insulting Turkish identity"

Reporters Without Borders condemns the decision to prosecute Arat Dink,
the son of slain Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink, and three other
journalists employed by his newspaper, the weekly Agos, for "insulting
Turkish identity" under article 301 of the criminal code.

The Istanbul prosecutor's office requested a six-month prison sentence for
Arat Dink when he appeared in court yesterday in Istanbul as his father's
successor as editor of Agos. The three other Agos journalists charged with
him are Serkis Seropyan, Aydin Engin and Karin Karakashli. Dink's father
was gunned down outside the newspaper on 19 January.

"Once again we have to denounce the use of article 301 of the criminal
code, which is a threat to freedom of expression," Reporters Without
Borders said. "A prosecution was also initiated against Erdal Dogal, one
of the Dink family's lawyers on 7 June."

Agos' staff is being prosecuted for republishing an interview Hrant Dink
gave to Reuters in July 2006 in which he referred to the 1915 Armenian
genocide and urged Armenians "to turn now towards the new blood of
independent Armenia, which alone is capable of freeing them from the
weight of the Diaspora."

Prior to his murder, Hrant Dink received a six-month suspended sentence
for these comments, which the newspaper reproduced as part of a series
entitled "The Armenian Identity."

The trial of 18 people accused of participating in Hrant Dink's murder is
due to open in Istanbul on 2 July.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------

TURQUIE

Arat Dink, le fils du journaliste assassiné, jugé pour "insulte à
l'identité turque"

Le procureur d'Istanbul a requis, le 14 juin 2007, six mois à trois ans de
prison contre Arat Dink. Fils du journaliste d'origine arménienne
assassiné le 19 janvier, Hrant Dink, il a comparu en tant que rédacteur en
chef de l'hebdomadaire Agos. Il est poursuivi pour "insulte à l'identité
turque", en vertu de l'article 301 du code pénal. Trois autres
journalistes du même titre subissent le même sort : Serkis Seropyan, Aydin
Engin et Karin Karakashli.

Reporters sans frontières condamne les poursuites engagées à l'encontre
des quatre journalistes. "Une nouvelle fois, il nous faut dénoncer
l'utilisation de l'article 301 du code pénal. Celui-ci menace la liberté
d'expression. Le 7 juin, un procès avait déjà été intenté contre Erdal
Dogal, l'un des avocats de la famille de Hrant Dink", a rappelé
l'organisation de défense de la liberté de la presse.

Les propos sur lesquels l'accusation se fonde sont ceux prononcés par
Hrant Dink, dans un entretien accordé à l'agence de presse Reuters, en
juillet 2006. Il évoquait la mémoire collective arménienne, marquée par le
génocide de 1915. Il invitait les Arméniens à "se tourner maintenant vers
le sang neuf de l'Arménie indépendante, seule capable de les libérer du
poids de la Diaspora". Ces propos, publiés dans Agos, dans le cadre d'une
série intitulée "L'identité arménienne", avaient valu au défenseur des
droits de l'homme une condamnation à six mois de prison.

Le procès des dix-huit personnes accusées d'avoir participé à l'assassinat
de Hrant Dink s'ouvrira à Istanbul, le 2 juillet prochain.

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of RSF**
**RSF est responsable de toute information contenue dans ce message**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX autoliste - RD Congo (RSF s'étonne de l'ouverture précipitée d'un procès des assassins présumés de Serge Ámese)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX autoliste (autres nouvelles d'intérêt)
From: Reporters sans frontières (RSF), afrique@rsf.org

Français seulement / French only

Reporters sans frontières
Communiqué de presse

15 juin 2007

REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO

Reporters sans frontières s'étonne de l'ouverture précipitée d'un procès
des assassins présumés de Serge Maheshe

Reporters sans frontières s'étonne des conditions dans lesquelles se
déroule le procès des assassins présumés de Serge Maheshe, journaliste de
Radio Okapi, tué le 13 juin 2007 par deux hommes armés alors qu'il quittait
le domicile d'un ami.

"On pourrait se féliciter de la célérité de l'enquête, mais la
précipitation avec laquelle la justice militaire a fait comparaître les
deux suspects est plus que surprenante. Aucun interrogatoire croisé, aucun
droit de la défense, aucune expertise scientifique de la scène du crime et
des armes utilisées, aucune protection des témoins, confusion de l'affaire
avec des arrestations de routine : tout cela ne ressemble pas à une
procédure judiciaire crédible. Nous pensions que l'assassinat de Serge
Maheshe était suffisamment tragique pour que les autorités congolaises
prennent l'affaire au sérieux. Il est encore temps de faire en sorte
qu'elle ne vire pas à la mascarade", a déclaré l'organisation.

Le procès de deux militaires, arrêtés à une cinquantaine de mètres du lieu
du crime en possession d'armes à feu ayant servi peu de temps auparavant,
s'est ouvert le 14 juin dans la soirée, devant le tribunal militaire de
Bukavu (capitale du Sud-Kivu, Est). Un millier de personnes étaient
présentes lors de l'ouverture de l'audience publique. Le gouverneur de la
province, Célestin Cibalonza, a expliqué à l'AFP qu'ils étaient jugés dans
le cadre d'une "procédure de flagrance".

Le caporal Katuzelo Mbo et le sergent Arthur Bokungo Lokombe (l'un est
membre de la Force navale et l'autre est membre du groupe d'intervention
rapide de l'armée au Sud-Kivu) ont été arrêtés lors d'une opération de
police organisée au lendemain du crime et au cours de laquelle 17 autres
personnes, dont 8 femmes, ont été arrêtées pour "détention illégale
d'armes". Tous ont comparu devant le même tribunal. Selon Radio Okapi, les
deux suspects ont nié toute implication dans le crime.

La famille de Serge Maheshe n'est pas présente, puisqu'elle est occupée à
organiser les obsèques du journaliste, prévues le 15 juin.

Peu avant son assassinat, Serge Maheshe avait affirmé être menacé,
notamment après qu'il avait été brièvement arrêté et brutalisé par deux
militaires, membres de la Garde présidentielle, selon plusieurs messages
électroniques dont Reporters sans frontières détient une copie.

_________________________________________

Leonard VINCENT
Bureau Afrique / Africa desk
Reporters sans frontières / Reporters Without Borders
5, rue Geoffroy-Marie
75009 Paris, France
Tel : (33) 1 44 83 84 76
Fax : (33) 1 45 23 11 51
Email : afrique@rsf.org / africa@rsf.org
Web : www.rsf.org

**RSF est responsable de toute information contenue dans ce message**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Pakistan (FNJ submits memorandum to embassy calling for press freedom safeguards)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ), mediamonitor@fnjnepal.org

15 June 2007

Kathmandu, Nepal

FNJ submits memorandum to Pakistani Embassy

Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) along with other media rights
organizations of Nepal submitted memorandum to Pakistani Embassy today at
Narayangopal Chowk, Kathmandu.

The memorandum was submitted as a call to safeguard press freedom in
Pakistan. FNJ secretary general Mahendra Bista handed over the memorandum
to a guard at the Embassy as the officials there denied to accept it and
the FNJ team was not allowed in the Embassy premises.

The memorandum expressed deep concern over the increasing dangers faced by
journalists in Pakistan and the growing restraints on the functioning of
the media in the country. It was submitted as a part of International Day
of Action called by International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).

Shiva Gaunle, FNJ vice president, Hemanta Kafle, treasurer and Gopal
Thapaliya, president of SAFMA Nepal also participated in the program.

(The memorandum to Pakistani Embassy is also attached here)

June 15, 2007

Honourable Pervez Musharraf
President of Pakistan
Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Dear President Musharraf

Call to Safeguard Press Freedom in Pakistan

I am writing to you on behalf of Federation of Nepalese Journalists, to
express our deep concern over the increasing dangers faced by journalists
in Pakistan and the growing restraints on the functioning of the media in
the country.

In this letter which is dated the day before the one-year anniversary of
when the body of Pakistan journalist Hayatullah Khan was found dumped with
bullet wounds in North Waziristan, we fear there have been far too many
targeted attacks on journalists and their family members, not to mention
ongoing open threats and intimidation, to deter them from their
professional pursuits. To cause further worry is that there is still no
public release on the investigation of Khan's death led by High Court
Justice Mohammed Reza Khan, despite it being completed six months ago.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), during an international
mission they led in February this year, highlighted four cases of
journalists killed since mid-2006, two cases of journalists' immediate kin
being targeted, not to mention innumerable cases of coercion and
intimidation, including kidnapping and torture.
(http://www.ifj.org/default.asp?index=4679&Language=EN)

In particular, journalism in the tribal regions is at a critical point, and
the journalists facing extreme danger on a daily basis need action from
your Government to provide support and security and to swiftly investigate
and bring to justice those that attack journalists and their families.

We also call on your Government to step up all investigations and judicial
cases for murders and attacks on journalists.

Most recently:
Dr. Noor Hakim Khan, vice-president of the Tribal Union of Journalists was
one of five men killed when a targeted bomb exploded on the vehicle he was
travelling in the northwestern Bajaur tribal agency.

Journalist Hadayatullah was abducted only a week ago.
Journalist Nasrullah Afredi has been subject to threats from extremist
group Lashkar-e-Islami.

Journalists in the tribal regions are the most vulnerable. Many are now
forced to resign from their profession due to the ongoing threats they and
their families face.

Most disturbing is the impunity that is afforded those that attack,
threaten and kill journalists.

For instance, in the murder case of Munir Sangi, the brother of journalist
Handi Sango of the regional TV channel KTN, it has been reported that
police and the Unar tribe are exerting pressure on the family to withdraw
the case.

Yet in the face of this culture of impunity for killers of journalists,
journalists themselves are being arrested and prosecuted, such as the
sedition case against Mukesh Rupeta and Sanjay Kumar, reporter and
cameraman for Geo TV.

We are also alarmed at reports from news sources that political bodies,
often linked to your government, are the ones responsible in generating
fear and concern amongst journalists. For instance, the Mohajir Rabita
Council (MRC) an affiliate of the Mottahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) - a
political party aligned with your government - has since released a list of
twelve journalists, who were identified as ethnic and linguistic
"chauvinists" and "enemies". This list includes some senior office-bearers
of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), an IFJ affiliate. The
subsequent discovery of bullets wrapped in brown paper envelopes in the
cars of three Karachi journalists on May 29, of whom two had been named in
the MRC list, has engendered a real and terrifying sense of insecurity
within Pakistan's media community.

Due to these mounting risks on the personal safety of journalists, we call
for the Pakistan government to take immediate and imperative action to
provide a secure environment for all Pakistan media personnel to work in.

Along with these grave concerns for the safety of journalists in Pakistan,
we feel that there is undoubtedly a rising trend of intolerance for media
freedom in Pakistan.

Although we acknowledge your announcement last Saturday June 9 to withdraw
the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Ordinance
2007 (and instead require broadcasters to curtail themselves by
self-regulation in the form of a code of conduct), a law which we consider
would be a serious curtailment for the electronic media in Pakistan to
operate freely, we are still deeply troubled by a clear pattern of
intimidation towards the media in the country.

The most recent manifestation of this comes in the form of a prohibition of
live coverage of events involving the suspended chief justice of Pakistan,
Mr Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry. We have learnt that within hours of the
amended PEMRA ordinance being decreed on June 4, two major TV channels -
Aaj TV and Geo TV were blacked out - the former almost nationwide and the
latter in the cities of Lahore and Islamabad.

We are convinced that this issue is an undesirable fallout of the
snowballing political crisis involving Mr Chaudhry and you Mr Musharraf,
the Pakistan army chief and president. To impose these totally unwarranted
curbs on the media in the context, conforms to the classic - and ultimately
self-defeating - practice of blaming the messenger.

The first indication that your government intended to use the PEMRA to
restrain the live coverage of certain events, came from a statement by the
Pakistan Information Minister, Mr Mohammad Ali Durrani. This explicit
statement of intent came a day after your address to a military garrison in
the town of Jehlum, when you suggested that the PEMRA's powers of
enforcement could be used to restrain "unbalanced reporting and
presentation".

Your warning that all Pakistanis must respect the country's armed forces,
was also repeated by the Information Minister the following day. We believe
that with the debate on the role of the uniformed services in
administration being a live issue in Pakistan, this is an effort by you as
the President to place yourself above and beyond legitimate expressions of
political dissent.

We have learned from reports that the Pakistan Government had sought on May
12, to stop the live coverage of a rally in Karachi involving Mr Chaudhry,
but failed. As an affiliate body of the IFJ, we are deeply disturbed that
there has been no effort since that day of mayhem on the streets of
Karachi, to charge those responsible for an outrageous attack on the
offices of Aaj TV, the first news channel to report that armed vigilantes
belonging to the Mottahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) were responsible for much
of the violence.

We realise there have been instances where you have listened to the
public's outcry. For instance, we are relieved to hear that the Pakistan
government intervened to drop the charges made against approximately 200
individuals, including senior journalists and members of the PFUJ, during a
protest demonstration in Islamabad. We nevertheless are deeply troubled
that these individuals were charged in the first place for allegedly
violating prohibition orders. For Pakistan to be free and democratic, we
urge the Pakistan government to support the right for their people to have
the freedom to express their beliefs and views by removing repugnant laws
which prohibit them from doing this, such as protesting in public.

We urge the Pakistan government to explicitly distance itself from the
coercive methods that have been employed by its friends and foes alike. We
call upon you, President Musharraf, to take the initiative to rebuild
trust, so that the media in Pakistan is at liberty to pursue its calling
with the appropriate sense of commitment and purpose.
We believe that the working conditions in the Pakistan media have
deteriorated to a point where a clear and unequivocal message of solidarity
from the worldwide community of journalists is called for.

We therefore fully endorse the PFUJ calls for the prompt institution of
comprehensive "safety measures" for journalists. These could include, as
immediate measures, (1) life insurance for all journalists, photographers
and cameramen; (2) safety training for which international groups could be
invited to familiarise local bodies with global best practices; (3)
provision of flak jackets and helmets for all journalists sent into
conflict zones; and (4) complete medical cover for regular staff of
established newspapers, agencies and channels.

We also call on the Pakistan government to exert more pressure on media
owners to immediately implement the 7th Wage Award which will grant fairer
pay to media personnel - an act which should have been ordered since 2001.
Job insecurity is increasing as a result of the poor and unacceptable pay
conditions for Pakistan journalists and in order for the media industry to
prosper and inform its public of the news, this must be executed.

Overall, it is time your government step up to become a supportive ally of
the Pakistan media, and assist them in tackling the intensifying challenges
which are pushing them to a point of dire crisis.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Bishnu Nisthuri
President
Federation of Nepalese Journalists

On behalf of the entire media community in Nepal

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of FNJ**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Palestine (IFJ calls on Hamas to release journalists rounded up following recent violent confrontations)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), newsletter@ifj.org

IFJ Warning Over Intimidation of Media and Calls for Release of Journalists
Held in Gaza

The International Federation of Journalists today called on Hamas leaders
in Palestine to avoid any intimidation of journalists and to release any
journalists rounded up in the Gaza Strip following the violent
confrontation of recent days.

The IFJ was particularly concerned at reports that Tawfiq abu Khousa, a
leader of the Palestine Journalists' Syndicate in Gaza was among people
associated with the Fatah Palestinian group rounded up by rival Hamas
militants yesterday.

"The tragedy of conflict between elements of the Palestinian leadership is
made worse if journalists and their leaders are targeted," said Aidan
White, IFJ General Secretary. "All journalists and leaders of the
journalists' community should be allowed to continue their activities
without any political interference or intimidation."

The IFJ also expressed concern that the latest conflict and the declaration
of emergency in the region might harm current efforts to seek the release
of kidnapped British journalist Alan Johnston who has been held in Gaza for
three months.

"This current conflict has created a dangerous climate for the community
and for journalism," said White. "The story needs to be reported, but when
the streets of Gaza and the West Bank are in the hands of armed groups
every journalist is potentially at risk. Both Hamas and Fatah groups should
ensure journalists and others are free to do their jobs without fearing for
their lives."

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of IFJ**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Colombia (students assault journalists)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Instituto Prensa y Sociedad (IPYS), aleon@ipys.org

The English version follows. La versión en inglés se encuentra más abajo.

Instituto Prensa y Sociedad (IPYS)
alertas en: www.ipys.org/ultimasaler.php / contacto: postmaster@ipys.org
14 de junio de 2007

COLOMBIA: ESTUDIANTES AGREDEN A DIARIO Y PERIODISTAS

La mañana del 13 de junio de 2007, cerca de 200 estudiantes de la
Universidad de Tolima protestaron durante una hora frente a la sede del
periódico El Nuevo Día, debido a su disconformidad con la cobertura que le
dio el diario a la violenta manifestación realizada por los estudiantes el
pasado 8 de junio en Ibagué, al centro del país.

Los manifestantes arrojando piedras y exigieron la salida de los
reporteros.

Ya el 12 de junio último, la reportera Adriana Montealegre y el fotógrafo
Helmer Parra, habían sido desalojados del Coliseo Cubierto de Universidad
de Tolima cuando cubrían una asamblea entre los estudiantes y las
autoridades.

La jefa de prensa del diario, Martha Páez, indicó que no hubo daños durante
la protesta ya que fueron resguardados por la policía.

Acciones recomendadas:
Solicitar a las autoridades que garantice el trabajo de los periodistas de
ese medio.

Dirigirse a:
Coronel Jorge Enrique Cartagena Pastrana
Comandante Policía Tolima
Teléfonos (098) 2620431 - 2611222
-------------------------------------------------
14 June 2007

COLOMBIA: STUDENTS ASSAULT NEWSPAPER AND JOURNALISTS

The morning of June 13 2007, nearly 200 students of the University of
Tolima protested for an hour in front of the headquarters of the newspaper
El Nuevo Día, because they disagreed with the way the paper covered the
student's violent demonstration of 8 June in Ibagué, central Colombia.

The demonstrators threw rocks and demanded that the reporters come out.

On 12 June, reporter Adriana Montealegre and photographer Helmer Parra, had
already been made to leave the University's Coliseum where they were
covering an assembly of the students and academic authorities.

The newspaper's chief editor, Martha Páez, stated that no damage was
incurred during the protest as the paper had been guarded by the police.

Recommended Action:
Request the authorities to guarantee the work of the newspaper's
journalists.

Appeals to:
Coronel Jorge Enrique Cartagena Pastrana
Comandante Policía Tolima
Phone:(098) 2620431 / 2611222

----------------------------

INSTITUTO PRENSA Y SOCIEDAD (IPYS)
Sucre N° 317, Barranco, Lima - PERÚ
Teléfono: 511- 2473308 / 247-4461 / 247-4465
Fax: 511-2473194
postmaster@ipys.org
www.ipys.org

**Esta información es responsabilidad de del IPYS**
**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of IPYS**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Fiji Islands (journalist Michael Field deported)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), pacnews@connect.com.fj

PACNEWS 1: Fri 15 June 2007

Fiji deports Fairfax journalist:

15 JUNE 2007 SUVA (Pacnews) ---- Fairfax Media reporter Michael Field was
deported from Fiji this morning, Stuff NZ reports

Mr Field, who was detained when he arrived with a contingent of New Zealand
media on Thursday night, was put on a plane back to New Zealand at 8.30am.

He was arrested at about midnight and kept in a detention centre overnight
after being singled out from the large group of journalists arriving in
Fiji after the nation expelled New Zealand's High Commissioner Michael
Green yesterday. Mr Field was told he was on a banned list when he arrived
in the country.

"I'm worn out, absolutely buggered," said Mr Field, who was woken every
half hour by security guards during the night. "They gave me the third
degree." "I'm okay physically but it'll be good to get out of here."

Mr Field's travel documents and cellphones were taken from him.

"They have not told me why I was the only one detained. It's quite clear
they are not happy with some of the things I have been writing" "There's
been no rough stuff but I certainly have not been able to relax," said Mr
Field

Mr Field was split off from a group of New Zealand journalists arriving in
Nadi International Airport to cover the latest turmoil. ….PNS (ENDS)

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of PINA**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Egypt (ARTICLE 19 calls for acquittal in Al Jazeera journalist appeal)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: ARTICLE 19, press@article19.org

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release - 14 June 2007

Egypt: ARTICLE 19 calls for acquittal in Al Jazeera journalist appeal

ARTICLE 19 calls for the acquittal of Al Jazeera journalist Howaida Taha,
who was sentenced to six months imprisonment and forced labour in May 2007
and whose appeal will be heard this Saturday, June 16.
On May 2, 2007, AL-Nozha Felonies Court in Cairo sentenced Al-Jazeera
journalist Howaida Taha to six months prison and forced labour, for
producing a documentary on torture in Egypt. Taha's documentary, which was
screened on Al Jazeera in April, had become a poignant and crucial
testimony of the violations committed against Egyptians by the country's
security apparatus. Ms Taha was sentenced in absentia but has decided to
return to Egypt to defend herself in the appeal.

"The Egyptian legal system has one chance to do the right thing – upheld
international standards on freedom of expression and fair trial. It is
essential that it complies with its international obligations" said Dr.
Agnes Callamard, ARTICLE 19 Executive Director

Howaida Taha has been convicted under articles 80 and 178 of the Penal
Code, which prohibit "acts that intend to harm national interests" and
"possessing and giving pictures and recorded material that undermine the
image of the country by presenting material contrary to the reality or
presenting inappropriate scenes". The court also fined her 20,000 EGP
(3,500$) and bailed her 10,000 EGP. Her laptop was also confiscated, as
were a set of video tapes that had been taken from her in January 2007 at
Cairo airport.

ARTICLE 19 believes that the charges contravene Ms Taha's internationally
guaranteed right to freedom of expression and that the trial itself did not
conform to international standards. We are particularly concerned that the
court turned down numerous defense requests, including a request to hear
witnesses who could testify to the truth of the allegations made in the
report. ARTICLE 19 further believes that no-one should be convicted for
reporting a truthful story.

ARTICLE 19 is also concerned with the frequent use in Egypt of Articles 80
and 178 of the penal code, and related provisions, to suppress legitimate
criticisms of government policies, acts of the executive and abuses of
power.

"The case against Howaida is not unique and is part of a series of repeated
government-led attacks, including through the abuse of legal procedures, to
silence dissent, take revenge on critical voices, and further undermine
freedom of expression in Egypt." adds Dr. Callamard.

ARTICLE 19 calls for the acquittal of Ms Taha. We also call for a reform of
the Egyptian criminal code, in line with Egypt's international obligations.
Egypt has ratified the ICCPR as well as the African Charter on Human and
Peoples Rights, both of which are legally binding treaties that guarantee
the right to freedom of expression as well as the right to a fair trial. It
must respect its international obligations.

NOTES TO EDITORS

For more information, please contact Hoda Rouhana, Programme Officer for
Middle East and North Africa, hoda@article19.org +442072789292

ARTICLE 19 is an independent human rights organisation that works globally
to protect and promote the right to freedom of expression. It takes its
name from Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which
guarantees free speech.

ARTICLE 19
6-8 Amwell Street London EC1R 1UQ United Kingdom
Tel: +44 20 7278 9292 - Fax: +44 20 7278 7660 - info@article19.org -
www.article19.org


**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of ARTICLE 19**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Mexico (ARTICLE 19 strongly condemns attack against journalist Misael Sánchez)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: ARTICLE 19, press@article19.org

Las version en español se encuentran más abajo.

PRESS RELEASE/ COMUNICADO DE PRENSA

For immediate release - 14 June 2007

ARTICLE 19 strongly condemns attack against Mexican journalist Misael
Sánchez

ARTICLE 19 strongly condemns the attack against Mexican journalist Misael
Sánchez and protests the lack of security and protection afforded to
journalists in Mexico.

Misael Sánchez works as a reporter for the newspaper Tiempo de Oaxaca
covering a series of news in Southern Mexico. On 13 June, as he was
returning home from work, Misael was attacked by an unidentified person who
shot him seven times. He was hit four times and subsequently hospitalised
in Oaxaca.

ARTICLE 19 expresses its solidarity with Misael Sánchez and his family, as
well as with all the employees of Tiempo de Oaxaca.

Wenceslao Añorve, the General Director of the Newspaper has referred to the
incident as an "attack aimed at killing our colleague". Together with the
other Directors of the Newspaper, he condemns the attack and expresses
concern for the security of Misael, his family and all the newspaper's
employees.

The attack is the latest in a long series of threats and violent acts
against journalists in Mexico, and, in particular in the state of Oaxaca
where, a long and violent social conflict has been taking place for the
last twelve months. Indymedia reporter Brad Will was killed on 27 October
2006 while covering the demonstrations carried out by APPO (Popular
Assembly of the Peoples of Oaxaca). No-one has been brought to justice so
far for this murder.

Añorve also expressed his serious concern for the state of impunity and
urged that the violent attack against Misael Sanchez wouldn't go
unpunished. According to the annual report on attacks against journalists
in Mexico "Counting the Cost 2006" produced by ARTICLE 19 and the Network
for the Protection of Journalists and Media, the vast majority of cases of
aggression against journalists and media workers remain unpunished. (See
http://www.article19.org/pdfs/press/mexico-counting-the-costs-pr.pdf )

ARTICLE 19 once again urges the State and Federal authorities to bring to
justice those responsible for this latest attack, and take all actions
necessary to ensure journalists are afforded the protection they deserve in
the exercise of their profession. NOTES TO EDITORS

For more information please contact Ricardo González, ricardo@article19.org
in Mexico: (55)1054-6500.

ARTICLE 19 is an independent human rights organisation that works globally
to protect and promote the right to freedom of expression. It takes its
name from Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which
guarantees free speech.

Para su difusión inmediata - 13 de junio de 2007

ARTICLE 19 condena enérgicamente el ataque en contra del periodista
mexicano Misael Sánchez

ARTICLE 19 condena enérgicamente el violento ataque en contra del
periodista Misael Sánchez y expresa nuevamente su preocupación ante la
grave situación que viven las y los periodistas en México.

Misael Sánchez se desempeña como reportero del periódico Tiempo de Oaxaca
cubriendo diversos temas en la región sur de México. El día de ayer, de
acuerdo con el testimonio de los directivos del periódico, Misael fue
atacado por una persona desconocida, quien le disparó en siete ocasiones
cuando regresaba a su casa. Misael Sánchez está siendo atendido en un
hospital de la ciudad de Oaxaca, debido a los cuatro impactos de bala que
recibió.

ARTICLE 19 contactó a los directivos de Tiempo de Oaxaca, quienes además de
condenar los hechos expresaron su preocupación por la seguridad de Misael,
su familia y el resto de los colaboradores del periódico. "El ataque tenía
el claro objetivo de ejecutar a nuestro compañero", señaló Wenceslao
Añorve, director general del rotativo. ARTICLE 19 expresa su solidaridad
con Misael Sánchez y su familia, así como con las y los colaboradores de
Tiempo de Oaxaca.

Este último atentado se suma a la larga lista de periodistas amenazados en
México y al clima de inseguridad que se vive en el estado de Oaxaca debido
a las movilizaciones sociales que han tenido lugar durante el último año.
El reportero estadounidense de Indymedia Brad Will, fue asesinado el 27
octubre del año pasado mientras cubría las movilizaciones de la Asamblea
Popular de los Pueblos de Oaxaca (APPO) sin que hasta el momento se haya
podido castigar tanto a los autores materiales como intelectuales.

El director general de Tiempo Oaxaca, también expresó a ARTICLE 19 su
preocupación por que el ataque en contra de su compañero no quede impune.
De acuerdo con el informe anual sobre ataques a periodistas en México
"Recuento de Daños 2006" presentado por ARTICLE 19 y la Red de Protección a
Periodistas y Medios de Comunicación, la gran mayoría de las agresiones en
contra de periodistas y medios de comunicación en México se mantienen
impunes.

ARTICLE 19 vuelve a hacer un enérgico llamado a las autoridades estatales y
nacionales para que otorguen las garantías mínimas de seguridad a los
periodistas en el ejercicio de su profesión y para que los responsables
materiales e intelectuales sean presentados ante la justicia.

NOTA EDITORIAL

Para pedir más informaciones, se ruega contactar Ricardo González,
ricardo@article19.org (55)1054-6500.
ARTICLE 19 es una organización independiente de derechos humanos que
trabaja en el mundo para proteger y promover el derecho de libertad de
expresión. Su nombre deriva del Artículo 19 de la Declaración Universal de
los Derechos Humanos, que garantiza la libertad de opinión y de expresión.

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of ARTICLE 19**
**Esta información es responsabilidad del ARTICLE 19**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - DR Congo (IFJ condemns murder of journalist Serge Maheshe)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), newsletter@ifj.org

La version française suit. The French version follows.

Media release
14 June 2007

IFJ Condemns Shooting of Journalist in DRC; Killing Is Third in Two Years

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) today condemned the
killing of radio journalist Serge Maheshe, whose shooting yesterday evening
in the eastern town of Bukavu made him the third journalist murdered in the
country since November 2005.

"We are deeply disturbed by the killing of Serge Maheshe and the continuing
danger journalists face in DRC," said Gabriel Baglo, Director of the IFJ
Africa Office. "We send our condolences to Serge's family and we affirm our
solidarity with his Radio Okapi colleagues as they continue their work
despite the difficult environment."

The IFJ also called on the government to conduct a full and impartial
investigation into Maheshe's death.

Maheshe, the local head of UN-backed Radio Okapi in the town of Bukavu was
shot by two unidentified armed men in plainclothes in the street yesterday
at around 9 PM local. According to reports, Maheshe was coming from the
home of a friend he had been visiting when he was killed. He was with two
other friends who were not injured. Radio Okapi sources said they have no
information on the reason for the killing.

Serge Maheshe is the first staff member of Radio Okapi killed since the
radio station was set up in 2002 and the third journalist killed in DRC in
two years.

On 3 November 2005 Franck Kangundu and his wife were killed just as they
entered their home. Bapuwa Muamba was shot on 8 July 2006 by unidentified
gunmen who broke into his home. In both of these cases suspects have been
sentenced or are on trial but local sources say the real perpetrators are
still on the loose.

The IFJ calls on the government to reopen both of these investigations so
those who are truly responsible are brought to justice.

For further information contact the IFJ: +221 842 01 43
The IFJ represents over 500,000 journalists in more than 115 countries

FR

Communiqué de presse
14 juin 2007

La FIJ condamne l'assassinat d'un journaliste en RDC, le troisième meurtre
de journaliste en deux ans

La Fédération Internationale des Journalistes (FIJ) a condamné aujourd'hui
l'assassinat du journaliste radio Serge Maheshe. Ce meurtre hier soir dans
la ville orientale de Bukavu a fait de Maheshe le troisième journaliste
assassiné dans le pays depuis novembre 2005.

« Nous sommes profondément troublés par l'assassinat de Serge Maheshe et
par le danger permanent que subissent les journalistes en RDC, » a dit
Gabriel Baglo, Directeur du bureau Afrique de la FIJ. « Nous adressons nos
condoléances à la famille de Serge et nous réaffirmons notre solidarité
avec ses collègues de Radio Okapi alors qu'ils continuent leur travail en
dépit de cet environnement difficile. »

La FIJ a également appelé le gouvernement à conduire une enquête complète
et impartiale sur la mort de Maheshe.

Maheshe, l'un des dirigeants locaux de la Radio Okapi soutenue par l'ONU
dans la ville de Bukavu a été tué hier soir vers 21 heures en pleine rue
par deux hommes en civil armés et non identifiés. Selon certaines sources,
Maheshe venait de la maison d'un ami à qui il a rendu visite avant d'être
abattu. Il était avec deux autres amis qui n'ont pas été blessés. Des
sources de Radio Okapi ont indiqué qu'elles n'ont aucune information sur la
raison de ce meurtre.

Serge Maheshe est le premier employé de Radio Okapi tué depuis que la
station de radio a été établie en 2002 et le troisième journaliste tué en
RDC en deux ans.

Le 3 novembre 2005 Franck Kangundu et son épouse avaient été abattus
lorsqu'ils rentraient chez eux. Bapuwa Muamba avait été tué le 8 juillet
2006 par les bandits armés non identifiés qui ont pénétré par effraction
dans sa maison.

Dans les deux cas des suspects ont été condamnés ou sont en cours de
jugement mais des sources locales indiquent que les vrais instigateurs sont
toujours en liberté.

La FIJ a appelé le gouvernement à rouvrir les deux enquêtes afin que les
véritables responsables soient traduits en justice.

Pour plus d'informations veuillez contacter le + 221 842 01 43
La FIJ représente plus de 500 000 journalistes dans plus de 115 pays dans
le monde

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of IFJ**
**IFJ est responsable de toute information contenue dans ce message**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX autoliste - Tunisie (l’OLPEC exige des autorités la levée du siège sur les bureaux du journal “Kalima”)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX autoliste (autres nouvelles d'intérêt)
From: Observatoire pour la liberté de presse, d'édition et de création en
Tunisie, (OLPEC) sbensedrine@yahoo.com

Tunis le 12 juin 2007


Communiqué commun de la société civile tunisienne

(Traduit de l'arabe)

Le 6 juin 2007, une délégation de représentants de la société civile a
tenté de se rendre au bureau du CNLT qu'il partage avec le journal Kalima,
pour une visite de solidarité. Elle comprenait entre autres le président de
la LTDH, maître Mokhtar Trifi, le président de la section de Bizerte de la
LTDH, Ali Ben Salem, ainsi que deux autres membres du bureau, Abdeljabbar
Maddahi et Mohamed Ben Said ; le représentant de l'Association de lutte
contre la torture, maître Mondher Cherni ; les dirigeants du FDTL, Dr
Khelil Ezzaouia et Zakia Dhifaoui ; les journalistes Lotfi Hajji, Mahmoud
Dhaouadi, Slim Boukhdhir et Sahbi Smara. Ils étaient également accompagnés
de membres dirigeants du CNLT.

Mais un nombre impressionnant de policiers en civil leur ont fait barrage
au niveau de l'avenue de la liberté, les empêchant d'accéder à la rue où se
trouve le local du CNLT, malgré leurs vives protestations contre cette
violation de leur liberté de circulation et de leur droit de rendre visite
à leurs collègues.

Depuis le 18 mai 2007, l'immeuble où se trouve le local du CNLT est
encerclé jour et nuit par un important dispositif d'agents de la police
politique qui interdisent aux membres du CNLT ainsi qu'aux journalistes de
Kalima l'accès à leur bureau. Ils les ont, durant cette période, expulsés
par la force de l'intérieur de l'immeuble, et vont jusqu'à leur interdire
de passer par les rues attenantes à l'immeuble. Ils leur ont également
interdit de s'attabler dans des cafés environnants et menacés de violences
s'ils n'obtempéraient pas. A aucun moment ces agents n'ont accepté de faire
état de leur qualité ou de produire un document légal justifiant leurs
actes, malgré les demandes réitérées.

Ces événements se produisent dans un contexte général d'étouffement des
libertés et de répression particulièrement féroce des activités de la
société civile marqué par :

a.. L'obstruction systématique des activités ordinaires de la LTDH et la
fermeture des locaux de ses sections régionales de façon totalement
arbitraire ;
b.. L'interdiction de l'usage des espaces publics et la surveillance
policière du local de l'ATFD ;
c.. Le déni d'accès à la justice aux membres élus de l'Association des
magistrats tunisiens pour résoudre leur contentieux avec la clique
putschiste qui a été imposée par le ministère de la Justice. Ils sont
aujourd'hui privés du droit de s'organiser de façon indépendante;
d.. Les obstacles mis devant la section tunisienne d'Amnesty
international pour tenir son AG annuelle à la fin du mois de juin par
l'annulation injustifiée du contrat de location d'une salle à l'hôtel
Amilcar.
e.. L'interdiction faite le 1er juin aux membres de l'AISPP d'accéder à
leur local encerclé par un important dispositif policier.
f.. Le barrage policier établi le 2 juin sur toutes les routes menant à
Gaafour (120 km de Tunis) en vue d'empêcher les représentants de la société
civile de se rendre au cimetière où est enterré Nabil Barakati, à
l'occasion de la commémoration annuelle de sa mort sous la torture.
g.. Les agressions physiques répétées par la police contre le journaliste
Slim Boukhdhir
h.. L'usage de la violence contre Abderrahman Hedhili, membre du bureau
directeur de la LTDH ainsi que Mongi Ben Salah, membre du CNLT, le 9 juin
par le chef du district de la police de Monastir, au moment où ils se
rendaient à une réunion de solidarité avec des syndicalistes en grève.
i.. La prolongation arbitraire de 26 mois supplémentaires de la mesure de
bannissement prise à l'encontre du journaliste Abdallah Zouari, maintenu en
détention administrative depuis cinq ans à Zarzis.

Les ONG soussignées, tout en exprimant au CNLT leur entière solidarité pour
les persécutions dont font l'objet ses militants,

a.. Exigent des autorités publiques la levée du siège sur les bureaux
du CNLT et de Kalima et le respect du droit du CNLT à l'activité légale, de
même que toutes les ONG qui sont privées de ce droit.
b.. Demandent aux autorités publiques de lever tous les obstacles
dressés contre les activités de la société civile indépendante et de cesser
les harcèlements des défenseurs, des journalistes et des juges.

Ø Ligue tunisienne de défense des droits de l'homme (LTDH)
Ø Association tunisienne des femmes démocrates (ATFD )
Ø Association tunisienne contre la torture (ALT)
Ø Association Internationale de soutien aux prisonniers politiques
(AISPP)
Ø Centre pour l'indépendance de la justice de Tunis (CIJT)
Ø Observatoire pour la liberté de presse, d'édition et de création
(OLPEC)

** OLPEC est responsable de toute information contenue dans ce message**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Middle East / North Africa (APN Weekly Summary, 14 June 2007)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: World Association of Newspapers (WAN), apn@wan.asso.fr

Arab Press Network
Weekly Summary Nr 10/07
14 June 2007

Visit our website at http://www.arabpressnetwork.org

-----------------
CONTENT:
-----------------

- SPECIAL FEATURE
Seizing the opportunities for freedom
The Tunisian journalist Souhayr Belhassen became the first Arab president
of the International Federation for Human Rights. In an interview with
APN, she gives her view on the freedom of speech in the region.

- NEWS FROM THE MEDIA SCENE
WPFC Fund Against Censorship
The innovative Fund Against Censorship, administered by the World Press
Freedom Committee (WPFC) in cooperation with eight other organizations,
provides assistance grants to news media and journalists facing criminal
prosecution.

Rory Peck Trust
In recognition of freelance cameraman Rory Peck who was killed in October
1993 in crossfire while covering the October coup outside Moscow's
Ostankino Television Centre, the Rory Peck Trust offers support to
freelancers who experience extreme difficulties in the field.

- PRESS FREEDOM
Latest Press Freedom News From the Region

Moroccan Journalist Wins Press Freedom Award
The Moroccan Journalist Ahmed Reda Benchemsi recently won the Samir Kassir
Award for Press Freedom thanks to his article on King Mohammed VI.

You are welcome to forward this newsletter to a colleague!

The Arab Press Network was launched by the World Association of Newspapers
(WAN) together with the leading Danish press group JP/Politiken. This
email-based network supports the development of a stronger independent
press in the Arab world by facilitating the exchange of ideas and
experiences between newspaper publishers and editors. The newsletter also
serves as a conduit of information by providing information on external
activities to help Arab press development.

The members consist of newspapers, media associations, newspaper
executives, journalists and freelancers.

For more information, contact apn@wan.asso.fr

To visit our website, go to http://www.arabpressnetwork.org

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of WAN**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Mexico (RSF urges probe into shooting attack on journalist Misaél Sánchez Sarmiento)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Reporters Without Borders (RSF), ameriques@rsf.org

The English version follows.
Las version en inglés se encuentran más abajo.

Español/English

Reporteros sin Fronteras
Comunicado de prensa

14 de junio de 2007
MÉXICO

UN PERIODISTA SOBREVIVE MILAGROSAMENTE A UN ATENTADO POR DISPAROS EN OAXACA

Reporteros sin Fronteras hace un llamamiento a las autoridades federales
tras el atentado por disparos que, el 12 de junio de 2007, sufrió Misaél
Sánchez Sarmiento, del diario regional Tiempo, en el Estado de Oaxaca
(Sur). La organización teme que se produzcan de nuevo represalias contra la
prensa, cuando ha pasado menos de año y medio de la crisis social y
política que, el 27 de octubre de 2006, costó la vida al camarógrafo de
Indymedia Brad Will.

"México sigue siendo el país más peligroso del continente para la prensa y
el ambiente continúa tenso en Oaxaca, donde nunca se han aclarado las
numerosas violaciones de los derechos humanos que tuvieron lugar durante la
crisis del pasado otoño. Aunque todavía no hay ningún indicio que pruebe la
relación entre la actividad profesional de Misaél Sánchez Sarmiento y el
atentado sufrido, no se debe excluir arreglos de cuentas. Los periodistas
siguen siendo blancos muy expuestos en un Estado donde la libertad de
prensa ha pagado un alto tributo a la violencia ambiental. Pedimos a las
autoridades federales que lo antes posible se hagan cargo de la
investigación", ha declarado Reporteros sin Fronteras.

Misael Sánchez Sarmiento resultó herido de bala el 12 de junio de 2007, en
el camino de regreso a su domicilio. El periodista fue trasladado
rápidamente al hospital más cercano. Su vida no corre peligro.

La dirección de Tiempo ha dicho a Reporteros sin Fronteras que, el 29 de
diciembre de 2006, el periodista publicó un artículo sobre la muerte del
camarógrafo independiente norteamericano Brad Will, ocurrida durante un
enfrentamiento entre opositores y partidarios del gobernador del Estado,
Ulises Ruiz Ortiz. Misaél Sánchez Sarmiento implicó en los hechos a la
Asamblea Popular de los Pueblos de Oaxaca (APPO), en conflicto con las
autoridades locales, que también se vieron salpicadas en el asesinato. El
periodista recibió amenazas tras la publicación del artículo, titulado "La
APPO ha matado a Brad". Sin embargo, no se ha establecido que exista
relación entre ese artículo y el atentado que sufrió el pasado 12 de junio.

Hacia las 20,30 horas, y en plena calle, un desconocido disparó seis tiros
sobre el periodista cuando, seguido de su esposa, se dirigía hacia su
coche. Alcanzado en el rostro, la pierna y el cuello, Misaél Sánchez
Sarmiento ha sobrevivido milagrosamente a las heridas. Según su redacción,
un automóvil con los cristales ahumados, y sin placas de matrícula, siguió
al vehículo que le trasladaba al hospital.

El director de Tiempo, Wenceslao Ramírez, ha dicho a Reporteros sin
Fronteras que no tiene ninguna idea acerca del móvil del atentado.
________________________

MEXICO

NEWSPAPER REPORTER MIRACULOUSLY SURVIVES SHOOTING ATTACK IN OAXACA

Reporters Without Borders appealed today to the federal authorities to take
charge of the investigation into a shooting attack on Misaél Sánchez
Sarmiento of the regional daily Tiempo in the southern city of Oaxaca on 12
June, because of the possibility that it was a reprisal linked to a social
and political crisis in which a US cameraman was shot dead last October.

"Mexico continues to be the western hemisphere's most danger country for
the press and the mood is still tense in Oaxaca, where light has still not
been shed on the many human rights violations that took place during last
autumn's crisis," the press freedom organisation said.

"Even if no link has yet been established between this attack and Sánchez's
work as journalist, score-settling cannot be ruled out," Reporters Without
Borders added. "Journalists continue to be very exposed targets in Oaxaca
state, and the prevailing violence there has had a serious impact on press
freedom."

An unidentified gunman fired six shots at Sánchez as he was walking towards
his car, followed by his wife, at around 8:30 pm. Hit in the face, neck and
leg, he miraculously survived and was rushed to the nearest hospital, where
his condition was reported to be stable. His newspaper said a car with
tinted windows and no licence plate followed the vehicle that took him to
the hospital.

The newspaper's management told Reporters Without Borders that Sánchez
wrote a report on 29 December 2006 about the murder of Indymedia news
agency cameraman Brad Will on 27 October 2006 during violent clashes
between supporters and opponents of Oaxaca state governor Ulises Ruiz
Ortiz.

Sánchez's story blamed Will's death on the Popular Assembly of the Peoples
of Oaxaca (APPO), an activist alliance opposed to the governor, although
the local authorities had initially been accused of his murder. Headlined
"The APPO killed Brad," the story's publication was followed by threats
against Sánchez. Nonetheless, no link has been established between the
article and the 12 June shooting.

Tiempo director Wenceslao Ramírez told Reporters Without Borders he had no
idea of the motive for the attack.

**Esta información es responsabilidad de del RSF**
**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of RSF**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --

IFEX Autolist - Cambodia (SEAPA protests firing of editor, closure of newspaper)

**We apologise for any cross-posting - The following is being forwarded
exactly as received**

To: IFEX Autolist (other news of interest)
From: Southeast Asian Press Alliance (SEAPA), sieweng@seapa.org

Press Release-Cambodia

14 June 2007

Source: Southeast Asian Press Alliance (SEAPA)

SEAPA protests firing of editor, closure of newspaper in Cambodia

The Southeast Asian Press Alliance (SEAPA) strongly protests the firing of
"Cambodge Soir" news editor Soren Seelow and the closure of the daily
bilingual newspaper over coverage of a banned report that implicated top
government officials in the plunder of Cambodia's forests.

According to the Cambodian Association for the Protection of Journalists
(CAPJ), Seelow was fired on 10 June for publishing an article that cited
the banned report by London-based environmental watchdog Global Witness on
illegal logging in Cambodia.

"In its announcement on 13 June, the newspaper's management had cited
financial difficulties as a reason for the closure. But the timing of the
announcement, just two days into a protest staged by the paper's entire
staff over the firing of Seelow, makes the decision to fold up suspicious,"
said SEAPA Executive Director Roby Alampay. "The people of Cambodia deserve
to know the real reason for the closure of a newspaper that over the past
12 years had been vital to the democratisation of their country."

At the French-Khmer daily's 10th anniversary celebrations, then Ambassador
of France, Yvon Roé d' Albert, commended the newspaper for its
contributions to the rebuilding of Cambodia. He said, on difficult road to
democracy, "Cambodge Soir" helped to establish in Cambodia "the freedom of
the press, without which freedom (itself) could not exist". The "Cambodge
Soir" began publication in 1995. It was sold in the Phnom Penh capital and
provincial towns, with a circulation of 3,000 that reached entrepreneurs,
government officials, parliamentarians, non-governmental organisations,
students, foreign embassies and foreigners living in Cambodia.
------------------

The Southeast Asian Press Alliance is a non-profit, non-governmental
organisation campaigning for press freedom in the region. Established in
Bangkok in November 1998, it aims to unite independent journalists and
press-related organisations in the region into a force for advocacy and
mutual protection.

**The information contained in this autolist item is the sole
responsibility of SEAPA**


--
To unsubscribe from this list visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

To update your preferences visit
http://listmgr.ifex.org/lists/?p=preferences&uid=1ea94d458769155a3d8cd0200e8e6093

--
Powered by PHPlist, www.phplist.com --