Sudan journalists stand firm against intimidation

The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate (SJS) fervently denounced threats directed at journalist Samar Suleiman, conveyed through both voice and text messages on her mobile device.

In a statement yesterday, obtained by Radio Dabanga, the SJS considered the incident as an escalation, attributing it to what they termed as baseless accusations labelling journalists as “sleeper cells” of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

These accusations materialised against the backdrop of Suleiman’s humanitarian efforts in aiding civilians seeking refuge from the devastations of war, particularly in the state of Kassala.

The syndicate affirmed its unwavering solidarity with Samar Suleiman, condemning such tactics as a “blatant attempt to intimidate and silence journalists, especially women”.

They also announced the initiation of legal support to confront these serious threats and ensure justice prevails.

According to the syndicate’s report, Samar Suleiman promptly notified the relevant authorities about the threatening messages received via social media platforms and her mobile device. Subsequently, the prosecution initiated five formal reports in response to this distressing incident.

Sudan Media Forum

Dozens of human rights violations against journalists and other press workers have been reported in Sudan since April 15. Most of the newspapers and radio stations have been forced to close because of the fighting and the repression.

A joint editorial by the Sudan Media Forum, laments that the war in Sudan has claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions, and urges the global community “to rally behind the Sudanese people and demand an immediate end to the war through negotiations. This conflict has caused enough suffering and democratic regression.”

Targeted murders of journalists have plunged Sudan into a total media blackout. This prevents journalists from fulfilling their crucial role in informing the public, upholding journalistic integrity, and exposing the war’s devastating consequences. Millions are suffering, our nation is fractured, and foreign intervention looms.