Sudan journalists blast press law
Sudanese journalists have condemned a proposed press law saying it will restrict media freedom. If passed, the new law will give greater powers to the media regulator, the National Press Council, to control media activities.
The council will be able to revoke licences, impose fines of up to US$21,500, withhold government releases and suspend newspaper publications for up to seven days. Lobby group, the Sudanese Journalist Network says the draft law violates the right to free speech and is a blow for press independence. It called on the government to amend the law to ensure freedom of speech is protected.
The Sudanese press has been subject to restrictions since the National Islamic Front gained power in 1989. The government says censorship is necessary for national security.
Source: Panos London
