The IFJ condemned the killing of Sudanese journalist Hanan Adam by the RSF, highlighting an escalating climate of fear for journalists in Sudan. Adam was killed alongside her brother during an RSF attack, marking Sudan as the deadliest country for journalists in Africa this year. The IFJ demanded an investigation and measures to protect media professionals.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has condemned the brutal killing of Sudanese journalist Hanan Adam, characterizing it as a ‘‘heinous’’ act. Adam, who served as a correspondent for Al-Maidan, the newspaper of the Sudanese Communist Party, was tragically killed alongside her brother, Youssef Adam, during an attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on December 8 in their residence in Wad Al-Asha. The IFJ has demanded immediate action to combat the rising tide of violence against journalists in Sudan.
In a statement on Tuesday, IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger expressed profound sorrow over the loss of both Hanan and Youssef Adam, extending condolences to their family. He urged the Sudanese authorities to initiate a thorough investigation and implement measures to curtail the pervasive climate of fear that journalists are currently facing in the nation. Meanwhile, Al-Maidan newspaper paid tribute to Adam through a Facebook post, reflecting on her unwavering commitment to journalism amidst perilous circumstances.
With Adam’s murder marking the sixth journalist casualty in Sudan this year, the country has emerged as the most dangerous environment for media professionals in Africa during 2024. The RSF has been implicated in the deaths of at least five journalists amidst escalating violence that erupted in April 2023, further solidifying its notorious reputation for targeting those in the journalism sector. The IFJ’s call for justice highlights the urgent need for international attention regarding the safety of journalists in Sudan, as the nation is embroiled in conflict resulting from a power struggle between rival military factions.
The situation for journalists in Sudan has significantly deteriorated amid ongoing conflict, particularly since April 2023, when violence escalated following a power struggle between competing military leaders. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary organization involved in the conflict, have been implicated in multiple attacks against journalists, contributing to a hostile environment for media professionals. The continued targeting of journalists has raised alarms from various international rights groups, emphasizing the pressing need for protective measures and accountability within the country.
In summary, the tragic killing of journalist Hanan Adam has drawn significant condemnation from the International Federation of Journalists, reinforcing the urgent need for action against the alarming violence faced by media personnel in Sudan. With a rising number of journalist fatalities attributable to the RSF, it remains critical for the Sudanese government to address this crisis and safeguard journalistic freedoms as the country grapples with ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
