Sudanese press law renders independent and critical journalism virtually impossible

ARTICLE 19

– Contact: John Barker or Peter Noorlander
– e-mail: [email protected]
– Telephone: +44 207 278 9292

In its memorandum published today on the Sudanese Press and Printed Materials Act 2004, ARTICLE 19 expresses grave concern about the Act and its effect on Freedom of Expression in Sudan.

The Act seriously infringes constitutionally guaranteed rights and repeals the 1999 Press Act without improving legal protection for freedom of expression and without paying regard to recommendations made by the UN Human Rights Committee.

Instead of implementing these recommendations, the new Act imposes such harsh restrictions on the right to express oneself through the media as to render independent and critical journalism virtually impossible.

ARTICLE 19 is also concerned that the enactment of the Act appears to run counter to the provisions of different agreements and protocols signed by the parties to the ongoing peace discussions, the Government of Sudan (GOS) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLM/A). The Machakos Protocol of 2002 and the Power Sharing Protocol of 2004 recommend close collaboration between the parties to the piece talks and recognise respect for human rights as a key priority in the negotiations for a peaceful settlement of the Sudan conflict.

To read the full report: http://www.article19.org/docimages/1859.htm