Sudan bans reports on Darfur rebel groups

May 22, 2007 (KHARTOUM) — The Sudanese press body has banned the local newspapers from publishing news reports related to the rebel groups because they undermine the security in the country.

The National Press and Publications Council Tuesday requested daily newspapers not to publish reports and activities of the rebel movements and not to interview its political leaders and as well as its field commanders.

The council urged newspapers not to “give publicity to the rebel movements and not to report on their threats and statements that undermine country’s security, instigate fear, and create instability”, the statement said.

This ban comes after a statement by one of Darfur rebel to the Khartoum based Al-Sahafa accusing the government forces and its backed militia of killing five civilian in North Darfur two days ago.

The council said all should agree not to give publicity to any rebel group, existing or under establishment, and not to give it a chance to issue false and irresponsible statements.

The Sudanese security service has ordered early today to stop the printing of al-Safaha pretexting that the printing workers did not fulfill an application dedicated to the security apparatus.

(ST)