Repressive Crackdown on Press Freedom is ongoing

Cairo, 26 February 2012

ANHRI denounces the ongoing repressive crackdown of the Sudanese authorities on press freedom. Not only did the Sudanese government confiscate issues of al-Tayar newspaper last week, but ordered the suspension of the newspaper altogether on 22 February. Only one day earlier, on 21 February, it seized the entire print run of the newspapers of al-Midan, al-Youm al-Taly, and al-Ahdath.

Newspaper suspended:

The security service issued a decision on 22 February to suspend the issuance of al-Tayar daily newspaper. The newspaper’s issue of 20 February was confiscated due to alleged legal procedures. However, the real reason is its publishing of opposition leader Hassan al-Turabi’s remarks criticizing al-Bashir’s regime.

Confiscation and closure:

The Sudanese authorities adopt the policy of newspapers confiscation in preparations for complete closure in case the newspapers’ policy continues in terms of regime criticism or revelation of official corruption. This is what happened with Alwan and Ra’y al-Sha’b newpspaers which have been closed in January 2012.

Confiscation following print:

In all incidents of newspapers confiscation, the newspapers’ copies were seized following full print to inflict the heaviest possible financial loss on the publisher. This confirms that there is an organized campaign aimed at silencing all voices opposed to the regime.

“The Sudanese regime is waging a repressive crackdown on press freedoms and shows enmity to every voice that calls for reform or change or reveals corruption” said ANHRI.

“The Sudanese journalists work in extremely difficult circumstances and are vulnerable to detention and loss of employment at any time” added ANHRI.

ANHRI calls on international organizations to continue to pressure more effectively to guarantee press and media freedoms and to protect freedom of opinion and expression.