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January 28, 2025 – Mozambique –
Mozambique is facing an alarming press freedom crisis, highlighted by the recent deaths of two journalists — Arlindo Chissale and Albino “Sibia” Sibia — amid ongoing political unrest following the disputed 2024 elections. The killings reflect an escalating campaign of intimidation and violence against independent journalists who have been documenting government abuses, protests, and conflict in the country.
Arlindo Chissale, 46, was the editor of Pinnacle News, an independent outlet known for its critical reporting on government corruption and the insurgency in Cabo Delgado. He disappeared on January 7, 2025, reportedly after being detained by security forces in the region. His body was discovered two weeks later on January 22, with credible reports confirming he had been brutally beaten by state security personnel before his death. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into Chissale’s killing, calling it a serious violation of press freedom and human rights.
Just weeks earlier, on December 29, 2024, 30-year-old blogger Albino “Sibia” Sibia was fatally shot while livestreaming a protest in Ressano Garcia. As police began firing at demonstrators, Sibia captured his final moments on video, saying, “Help. I got shot… and they keep shooting.” He was reportedly warned by police to stop filming before being shot twice in the back. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the killing and emphasized the growing dangers facing journalists covering protests and state violence in Mozambique.
Both deaths come amid widespread unrest following Mozambique’s contested elections, where security forces have used live ammunition, tear gas, and mass arrests to suppress demonstrations. Reports suggest over 300 protesters have been killed during clashes with authorities, while journalists, many marked as press, have faced increasing harassment, physical attacks, and censorship while reporting from the frontlines.
Rights groups, including IFJ and CPJ, continue to call for accountability, the protection of journalists, and urgent international attention. Without serious reforms and independent investigations, Mozambique risks silencing independent journalism altogether, depriving its citizens of crucial information during a time of political and social upheaval.
Reference –
https://www.barrons.com/news/mozambican-journalist-beaten-by-police-has-died-rights-group-f7d09e42
Blogger killed, editor missing as Mozambique’s press freedom crisis deepens
