DR CONGO: US concerned over detention of journalist Bujakera

US Deputy Secretary of State for African Affairs, Molly Phee, has voiced her deep concern over the unjust detention of journalist Stanis Bujakera by authorities in the DR Congo.

During her meeting with DRC’s Minister of Communications, Patrick Muyaya in New York, Phee emphasized the importance of upholding human rights and freedom of expression as fundamental pillars of democracy.

In a statement posted on her X account (formerly Twitter), Phee highlighted the critical role of freedom of expression in a fair and democratic society while expressing her apprehension regarding Stanis Bujakera’s detention.

Additionally, Phee engaged with Minister Muyaya on various topics, including upcoming elections, the humanitarian situation in the eastern region of the country, and the state of freedom of expression in the DRC.

The United States was among the first nations to express concern about Bujakera’s arrest, with numerous messages of solidarity continuing to pour in for the detained journalist.

Bujakera, who has been in custody since September 8, 2023, is currently under a fifteen-day provisional arrest by Congolese authorities, who have accused him of disseminating false information related to the assassination of former Transport Minister Cherubin Okende.

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Ollus Ndhomu

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