Angolan Journalists' Union Calls for Decriminalization of Journalistic Activity

Teixeira Cândido, the secretary-general of the Angolan Journalists' Union (SJA), has reaffirmed the need to decriminalize journalistic activity in Angola to ensure effective press freedom.

Cândido made this statement in Luanda, the capital of Angola, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where journalists can freely and safely carry out their work without fear of legal consequences.

The call for the decriminalization of journalistic activity is aimed at strengthening press freedom and enabling journalists to fulfill their role in informing the public and holding authorities accountable. Cândido highlighted the ongoing efforts to address human rights issues and the need for reforms to protect the rights of journalists in Angola.

Why this matters: Press freedom is essential for democracy, especially in a year when much of the world's population heads to the polls. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an independent, nonprofit organization that promotes press freedom worldwide, defends the right of journalists to report the news safely and without fear of retaliation.

Angola has faced challenges in ensuring press freedom and protecting the rights of journalists. The SJA's call for decriminalization reflects the urgent need to create a safe and enabling environment for journalists to carry out their work. "We must decriminalize journalistic activity in Angola to ensure effective press freedom," Cândido stated, emphasizing the importance of this issue.

The SJA's statement comes at a critical time as Angola continues to confront human rights issues and the need for reforms in various sectors, including the media. Cândido's reaffirmation of the necessity to decriminalize journalistic activity highlights the ongoing struggle to protect the rights of journalists and promote a free and independent press in the country.

Key Takeaways

• SJA secretary-general calls for decriminalization of journalism in Angola.
• Decriminalization aims to ensure press freedom and protect journalists' rights.
• Press freedom is essential for democracy, especially during election years.
• Angola faces challenges in ensuring press freedom and protecting journalists.
• SJA's statement highlights the ongoing struggle to promote a free press in Angola.