UNESCO chief deplores killing of broadcaster in DR Congo

The head of the United Nations agency mandated to defend freedom of expression and press freedom today deplored the killing of journalist Robert Chamwami Shalubuto in Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“I condemn the killing of Robert Chamwami Shalubuto which raises concerns about the safety of journalists,” Irina Bokova, Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said in a statement issued in Paris.

Mr. Shalubuto, a journalist for public broadcaster Congolese National Radio and Television (CNRT), was shot by two unidentified gunmen while he was with friends in a bar in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on 26 December.

“I call on the authorities to investigate this case and spare no effort to improve the safety of journalists,” Ms. Bokova urged.

The UNESCO Director-General issues statements on the killing of media workers in line with Resolution 29 adopted by UNESCO Member States at the Organization’s General Conference of 1997, entitled “Condemnation of Violence against Journalists.”

These statements are posted on a webpage condemning the killing of journalists.