Senegal Media Protests for Press Freedom
- Senegal's media organizations stage a blackout day to protest government crackdown on press freedom.
- The protest aims to bring attention to the direct targeting of media outlets to suppress freedom of the press.
- Media outlets in Senegal united to fight against curtailing press freedoms in the country.
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — In a significant display of dissent, media organizations across Senegal observed a blackout day on Tuesday, protesting what they describe as a government-led assault on press freedoms. Major television stations, including TFM, ITV, and 7 TV, went dark, while radio stations like RFM and iradio ceased broadcasting. Most daily newspapers refrained from publishing, with exceptions made for government-affiliated outlets. This protest highlights escalating tensions between the media and the Senegalese government, raising international alarm over the state of press freedoms in a nation known for its relative stability in West Africa. The Senegalese Council of Press Distributors and Publishers has accused the government of severe financial repression, claiming that media outlets have had their bank accounts frozen, production equipment seized, and advertising contracts terminated without due process. These allegations, reported in an editorial in Le Quotidien, have not been independently verified, and government officials have yet to respond. The council characterized the current climate as one of the darkest periods in Senegalese media history. Concerns over press freedoms have intensified following Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko's remarks in June regarding alleged misappropriation of public funds within the media sector. Reports of police violence against journalists and the arrest of government critics have surged, prompting international watchdog Reporters Without Borders to call for urgent action to protect press freedoms. The organization noted a significant decline in Senegal's ranking on its World Press Freedom Index, dropping from 49th to 94th place in just three years. Sadibou Marong, RSF's West Africa chief, emphasized the lack of protection for journalists and criticized political leaders for failing to uphold the right to information. The ongoing situation poses a serious threat to the democratic fabric of Senegal, as media organizations continue to face mounting pressure from the government.