Lesotho: Arrest of journalist a spurious and cynical ploy to intimidate the press
| Publisher | Amnesty International |
| Publication Date | 15 September 2017 |
| Cite as | Amnesty International, Lesotho: Arrest of journalist a spurious and cynical ploy to intimidate the press, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf75d94.html [accessed 1 November 2019] |
| 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. |
In response to the arrest of the owner of MoAfrika FM, Candi Ramainoane, following the closure of the station earlier this week, Amnesty International's Deputy Director for Southern Africa, Muleya Mwananyanda said:
"The closure of MoAfrika FM and the arrest today of the station owner, Candi Ramainoane, is nothing more than a witch-hunt aimed at harassing and intimidating the country's press.
"The defamation charge against him is spurious and cynical and is meant to send a chilling message to other media owners and journalists of the consequences they face for scrutinising the government.
"Candi Ramainoane must be released immediately and unconditionally and be allowed to do his job. MoAfrika FM should also be re-opened immediately."
Candi Ramainoane and MoAfrika FM have been targeted for reporting critically about Lesotho's political affairs.
