KABUL (SW): The Union of Radio Television Afghanistan (RTA), while demanding a special security unit for the safety of journalists, asserted that any damage inflicted upon free press is actually a blow to the democratic values of the country.
RTA Union made these remarks in a press communiqué here on Monday. It urged upon government to establish security forces’ special unit to ensure the safety of journalists in the country. Last week, a suicide attack on Tolo TV staffers killed 7 staffers from Mobi Group and injured 27 civilians. This incident has caused growing concerns over the security of journalists and media houses.
International community, government and media organization expressed strong reaction to the last week’s suicide attack and strongly condemned it.
The RTA Union has urged President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani to fully support promises made in regard to the liberty and safety of media professionals.
The statement added that the government should protect freedom of speech and pave the way for close cooperation between government institutions and media so that people remain informed of the situation and should not be misled by terrorist groups’ propaganda.
The statement further said that attacks on civilians, in particular, on reporters and journalists are against humanity and against Islam and international laws.
ENDS
