UNESCO chief calls for investigation into murder of DR Congo journalist
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 27 May 2013 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, UNESCO chief calls for investigation into murder of DR Congo journalist, 27 May 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/51a5c7834.html [accessed 31 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
The head of the United Nations agency tasked with defending press freedom today called for an investigation into the murder of a journalist in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guylain Chanjabo.
"I condemn the murder of Guylain Chanjabo and urge authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo to do their utmost to shed light on his tragic death, and bring those responsible to justice," said the Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Irina Bokova.
Mr. Chanjabo presented a Swahili language programme on Radio Canal Revelation, and was reported missing on 5 May. His body was found bearing evidence of neck injuries on 17 May in the Ngezi River, five kilometres from the city of Bunia in the northeastern region of the DRC.
"Freedom of expression is an irrevocable right in democratic societies, necessary for the rule of law and allowing citizens to take part in informed debate," Ms. Bokova said.
According to Reporters Without Borders, Mr. Chanjabo had been violently attacked six months ago, and, just before his disappearance, had been beaten in a bar by an unidentified person who criticized the content his programmes.
