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The investigative journalist, owner of the “Dakar Matin” site and very critical of the authorities, was returned to detention on 20 December. Pape Alé Niang, hospitalized, is “ extremely proven by his hunger strike, according to his supporters, who announce new mobilizations to demand his release.
With our correspondent in Dakar, Charlotte Idrac
« The fight goes on », for the coordination of the press associations of the Senegal (CAP), who called the profession to a new rally this Wednesday. But following 15 days of hunger strike, Pope Alé Niangaccused of ” dissemination of military documents likely to harm national defense », is in a critical situation. ” Since Friday, he no longer receives treatment. His vital organs might be affected. He hardly moves and is very weak. We’re all worried regarding what might happen », explains Ibrahima Lissa Faye, one of the managers of the CAP.
To justify the refusal of a new provisional release, the prosecutor invoked ” risks of repetition » or even « public disorder “Says one of the journalist’s lawyers.
For its part, Reporters Without Borders once more asked on Tuesday immediate release by Pape Ale Niang. The Frapp France Dégage movement announced a rally on Saturday in front of the main hospital in Dakar.
► To read also: The Senegalese press calls for the “immediate release” of journalist Pape Alé Niang
For Ibrahima Lissa Faye, freedom of the press is at stake: ” Two months for a journalist in prison is too much. In the history of Senegal, this is unheard of”. There is a sword of Damocles hanging over the heads of journalists who sometimes apply self-censorship. Press freedom is under threat in Senegal and journalists are afraid ».
« Freedom of the press is guaranteed in Senegal “, ensured for his part the Minister of Communication last November, adding that” freedom of the press should not be confused with anarchy ».
