WAN-IFRA condemns murder of Rwandan editor

Rugambage, the acting editor-in-chief of the Umuvugizi weekly newspaper, was shot and killed on 24 June in an attack that appears to be directly related to his work. On the morning of his death, he had published an article alleging that Rwandan security officials were involved in the attempted murder of a former Rwandan General, Kayumba Nyamwasa, in South Africa. Rugambage had expressed concern to a friend of being followed by armed men the day before his death.

Worsening during build-up to elections

The situation has been steadily worsening for journalists and the independent press in Rwanda ahead of presidential elections that are due to take place in August 2010. Umuvugizi was suspended in April, along with another weekly title, Umuseso. Journalists have been placed under surveillance, while a reporter for Umuvugizi was attacked after interviewing an opposition leader.

In a letter to President Paul Kigame, WAN-IFRA urged the Rwandan leader to instigate a thorough investigation into Rugambage¹s murder, and called on him to ensure a safe environment "in which journalists are able to carry out their professional duties without fear of violence."

Read the full letter.