Sudanese security reinstates four suspended newspapers after ‘apology’
June 11, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – The National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) allowed four newspapers to resume publication after making a written apology for publishing what was described as stories that are harmful to the society’s security and values.
But several journalists suggested it was likely a reaction to news published by those newspapers on incidents of sexual harassment and child rape taking place inside school buses.
The security apparatus also arrested an activist by the name of Nisreen who spoke on the issue of children sexual harassment and Mr. Yasser Mirghani who organized the forum covered by the newspapers.
They were both released recently.
Nisreen also made an apology this week through a statement saying that her remarks were “truncated” by the newspapers and that she does not have statistics on sexual harassment cases directed at schoolchildren.
The NISS-managed Sudanese Media Center (SMC) website said that the four newspapers pledged not to repeat this incident.
The National Council for Press and Publication (NCPP) and pro-government Sudan Journalists Union (SJU) has appealed to NISS to lift the suspension.
NISS media director called on the press to show more professionalism and responsibility and continue its positive role in shaping the social, cultural, political and economic life and to be a key partner in the process of revival and construction, noting that the NISS will continue its role in protecting citizens and the homeland.
(ST)