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Momodou
Denmark
11735 Posts |
 Posted - 05 Dec 2006 : 00:18:37
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Foroyaa Editorial
Freedom Of Expression Cannot Be Suppressed
The fundamental right of freedom of expression cannot be suppressed. This fundamental rights is enshrined in our constitution and contained in many international instruments such as the UN Declaration on Human Rights and the African charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Section 25, subsection (1) of the Constitution states unequivocally “Every person shall have the right to- (a) freedom of speech and expression, which shall include freedom of the press and other media;”
Article 19 of Universal Declaration on Human rights also states: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression, this rights includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”
In this day and age no amount of intimidation arrest, torture, threats, blackmail, draconian law etc can suppress the people’s freedom to express themselves. Such developments can only undermine the image of a country.
For example, of what use was it to murder Deyda Hydara? It only tarnished the image of the country. It could not stop The Point from operating.
On the contrary, it has enhanced its image internationally as exemplified by the award the paper has been offered.
The same goes to the GPU President, Mr. Madi Ceesay, who recently received an international award subsequent to his arrest and detention this year.
The arrests and detention of journalists in this country has been the focus of the attention of not only NGOs and governments but also the Human Rights Commission which has its headquarters in Banjul. The Special Rapporteur to the Commission on Freedom of Expression has a poor impression of developments relating to Freedom of Expression and is disappointed that the government has not responded to her concerns.
Secretary of State for Information is trained professionally. Our expectation is for her to use her professional experience to advice the President and not to merely follow what he says.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No.106/2006, 29-30 November, 2006
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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