mozambique: Journalist attacked
A senior journalist with "Savana" newspaper, Fernando Manuel, was brutally assaulted by a youth on 15 October 2003. His assailant apparently felt offended by an article written by the journalist and published in the 10 October edition of "Savana". The article in question was a profile of a recently deceased woman. In the article, Manuel highlighted her extensive development work in the community and commented on the need to recognise her achievements.
IFEX - News from the international freedom of expression community
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ALERT - MOZAMBIQUE
17 October 2003
Journalist attacked
SOURCE: Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA), Windhoek
(MISA/IFEX) - On 15 October 2003, Fernando Manuel, a senior journalist with
"Savana" newspaper, was brutally assaulted by a youth. His assailant apparently
felt offended by an article written by the journalist and published in the 10
October edition of "Savana". Manuel sustained extensive injuries to his face and
head and is currently receiving medical care at Maputo central hospital.
According to sources at "Savana", the article in question was a profile of a
recently deceased woman. In the article, Manuel highlighted her extensive
development work in the community and commented on the need to recognise her
achievements.
The woman's relatives were not pleased with the article and the youth, a family
member of the deceased, questioned and violently assaulted the journalist on 15
October.
Manuel will shortly undergo surgery to remove crystal pieces that are embedded
in his face and parts of his head as a result of the attack.
"Savana" editor-in-chief Fernando Gonsalves confirmed that a docket was opened
and that police are investigating the incident.
For further information, contact Zoé Titus or Kaitira Kandjii, Regional
Information Coordinator, MISA, Street Address: 21 Johann Albrecht Street,
Mailing Address; Private Bag 13386 Windhoek, Namibia, tel: +264 61 232 975, fax:
+264 61 248 016, e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected], Internet:
http://www.misa.org/
The information contained in this alert is the sole responsibility of MISA. In
citing this material for broadcast or publication, please credit MISA.
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