The Namibia Media Professionals Union (Nampu) has condemned what it calls escalating interference in and censoring of Namibia’s media.
The organisation says the recent resignation of New Era former managing editor Johnathan Beukes was forced.
“This unprecedented move compromises the public’s right to unbiased information precisely when the electorate relies most on fair and independent reporting. Namibia, as the birthplace of the Windhoek Declaration, has long championed press freedom. It is therefore alarming and concerning to witness our government, once a global symbol of media freedom, now eroding this legacy,” Nampu acting secretary general Jemima Beukes said in a statement on Monday.
“We call on the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology to provide a full explanation for Johnathan’s removal and remind the government that New Era is not a personal fiefdom of politicians but a publicly funded institution accountable to the people of Namibia. Nampu stands firmly against this pattern of political interference, which undermines public trust and poses a grave threat to our democracy,” she said.
Johnathan Beukes on Monday criticised a proposed merger between New Era and the Namibia Press Agency (Nampa), warning it could stifle press freedom.
He said a planned merger between New Era and Nampa would muzzle New Era’s “principled voice”.
Before his official resignation was announced last month, he was suspended in October 2023 after New Era published reports questioning the transparency of the judiciary in appointing judges.
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