Journalist Sandra Muhoza’s detention – Press release from the coalition of journalists of SOS Médias Burundi

We strongly condemn the arbitrary detention of our colleague, Sandra Muhoza, jailed since April 18 in Bujumbura. This deliberate repression against independent media is an affront to freedom of expression and the press in Burundi.

Sandra Muhoza, a journalist committed to free and independent information within La Nova Burundi, finds herself unjustly behind bars in Mpimba central prison. Accused of “endangering the State security and ethnic aversion”. For us, these charges are absurd and aim to muzzle any critical voice and to instill fear among journalists.

We vigorously denounce this new attack on press freedom in Burundi. The case of Sandra Muhoza sadly illustrates the reality of journalists forced to self-censorship to avoid reprisals from the regime in place.

We once again call on the Burundian authorities to respect the fundamental rights of journalists.

We are also calling for international support for Sandra Muhoza. The solidarity of the international community is essential to put pressure on Burundian authorities and obtain the release of our unjustly detained colleague.

Bujumbura (Burundi), June 20, 2024.