Ethiopia: Rejects accusations of media control. The Ethiopian government
has hit back at claims that it is trying to push through draconian press
laws aimed at restricting the country's fledgling media, reports IRIN.
The government said in a strongly worded statement that the private press
often abuses its position and the new draft law will create "strong,
responsible" media. The comments come after widespread criticism among
international journalists' organisations and the Ethiopian Free Press
Journalists' Association.
They claim that the new law - which could come into force later this year -
would restrict freedom of expression and prevent journalists from doing
their work. Their views have been backed by the International Federation of
Journalists.
"Ethiopia is embarked upon a fictitious process of consultation and a sham
debate about press reform while it plans to stifle the media and to gag
independent journalists," said Aidan White, IFJ General Secretary.
Human rights group Human Rights Watch has accused the Ethiopian government
of harassing academics and students who are critical of its policies. But
the statement, issued by the ministry of information, dismissed the claims
as "irresponsible".
IRIN report.
Human Rights Watch report.
IFJ statement.
http://www.indexonline.org/indexindex/20030127_ethiopia.shtml
