24.11.2008 - Press release
Assassination of a Radio Okapi journalist in the Democratic Republic of Congo

The FDFA condemns the assassination of a Radio Okapi journalist in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Didace Namujimbo is the second journalist from Radio Okapi, after Serge Maheshe, to have been killed within one year. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is deeply concerned about these assaults on the freedom of the press in the region.

Didace Namujimbo was shot dead on Friday 20 November close to his house in Bukavu, in Eastern Congo. The Radio Okapi journalist is survived by his wife and two children. The FDFA extends its deepest sympathy to his family and to the Hirondelle Foundation of Switzerland, which supports the radio project.

Mr Namujimbo had intensively researched the events leading to the assassination of his colleague, Serge Maheshe, and the widespread problem of rape. In an unequal battle violence has won over humanity.

The FDFA regards the right of the press to work freely as an indispensable part of the promotion of democracy. The Radio Okapi project is supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. The FDFA condemns this violation of the freedom of the press and demands full explanations of both assassinations.