The International Federation of Journalists condemned the killing of Sudanese journalist Hanan Adam by the Rapid Support Forces, classifying it as a “heinous” crime. Adam’s murder, along with her brother, reflects a growing climate of fear for journalists in Sudan, which has seen a significant increase in violence against media professionals amid ongoing conflict. The IFJ urges the Sudanese government to investigate and take action against this violence.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has vehemently condemned the tragic killing of Sudanese journalist Hanan Adam by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), branding the act as a “heinous” crime. This incident underscores the perilous environment for journalists in Sudan, which has been exacerbated by ongoing violence. Adam, a dedicated journalist working for the Ministry of Culture and Information in Gezira state and a correspondent for the Sudanese Communist Party’s Al-Maidan newspaper, was fatally shot in an RSF assault on her residence in Wad Al-Asha, along with her brother, Youssef Adam, on December 8.
The IFJ has called for immediate action from the Sudanese government to investigate this grievous act, advocating for measures to combat the pervasive fear and violence faced by the press. “We mourn the loss of our colleague, Hanan Adam, and her brother Youssef, and extend our deepest condolences to the family,” remarked IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger. As the sixth journalist killed in Sudan this year, Adam’s death highlights the pressing danger for media professionals in the region.
Al-Maidan newspaper expressed their sorrow over the loss, honoring Adam’s commitment to her craft, stating she worked with “only paper and pen”. The RSF has been implicated in the deaths of at least five journalists since the conflict escalated in April 2023, solidifying its reputation for targeting journalists. The IFJ’s call for justice highlights the increasing international concern regarding the RSF’s actions and the deteriorating safety of journalists in a country embroiled in conflict over a power struggle between rival military factions.
The situation for journalists in Sudan has become increasingly dire, particularly since the conflict erupted in April 2023. The violence has been fueled by a power struggle between rival generals, leading to a significant increase in attacks on media professionals. The killing of journalists like Hanan Adam reflects a broader trend of suppression and violence against the press in the region, earning Sudan the grim distinction of being one of the deadliest countries for journalists in Africa in 2024.
In summary, the assassination of Hanan Adam by the RSF exemplifies the grave threats that journalists face in Sudan. The IFJ’s urgent call for government action underscores the need for accountability and protection measures for media professionals. Adam’s tragic death not only marks a significant loss for her family and colleagues but also highlights the ongoing challenges and dangers that journalists endure in a conflict-ridden environment. Immediate attention and intervention are crucial to safeguard freedom of the press in Sudan.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
