Sudanese journalists scoff at Bashir’s declaration of June 26 as National Media Day

June 25, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – Sudanese journalists on social media sites expressed surprise at a presidential decree issued by President Omer Hassan al-Bashir on Thursday declaring June 26 of each year as the National Media Day which coincides with the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture and the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

According to decree the minister of Information Ahmed Bilal Osman will deliver a speech on Friday during the celebration.

Bashir’s decision comes amid an unprecedented crackdown on media by the security apparatus that include suspension, confiscation and seizing copies of multiple newspapers on the same day which inflicts heavy financial losses on these outlets.

Sudan state TV is also suffering since 2011 from the accumulation of financial arrears and lack of equipments such as cameras and other gears.

The minister of Information remarks tomorrow are expected to address the achievements since the second National Media Conference held a year ago and the implantation of its recommendations.

The conference was attended by 1,500 figures including political and executive leaders, scientists, experts and representatives of political parties.

(ST)