Press freedom takes a knock in Egypt - 7 Feb 2011
By Sindy Peters, Africa editor
It's been two weeks since anti-government Egyptians took to the streets of Cairo and other cities across the country calling for the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak. Last week however, we saw a nasty twist in developments as the media became the target of certain factions. Press organisations worldwide including WAN-IFRA, the WEF and CPJ have all condemned the abuse and violence toward media calling for their protection and for media freedom to be upheld. Hopefully we see a firm resolution met this week as the country's economy is steadily falling to pieces.
Germany has taken a firm stance with regard to the repressive media law recently passed by Malawi's government, given the nod from President Bingu wa Mutharika. Germany has withdrawn half the planned budgetary aid to the country. This will hopefully send a strong message to the Malawian government that media censorship will not be tolerated.
Freedom of the press should be upheld and protected to the furthest extent in every country across Africa and the world.
Long live the free press!
