Journalist Émérite Amisi Musada Abducted and Tortured in Eastern DRC

April 28, 2025 – Congo – 

On April 15, 2025, journalist Émérite Amisi Musada was abducted in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), after receiving threats related to his reporting on the ongoing conflict in the eastern region. He was held captive until April 19, when he was found near Lake Kivu in a severely weakened state. Musada reported being abducted by four individuals in civilian clothing, subjected to physical abuse, and interrogated about his journalistic work. He was released without explanation and is currently recovering from his ordeal.

Musada, a reporter for DeboutRDC, has been a vocal critic of armed groups and government forces in eastern DRC. His abduction highlights the escalating dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones, where reporting on sensitive issues can lead to threats, violence, and impunity.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have condemned the attack, urging DRC authorities to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. They emphasize the need for greater protection of journalists to ensure the free flow of information in regions affected by conflict.

The abduction of Musada underscores the challenges journalists face in conflict zones, where their safety is often compromised, and their ability to report freely is hindered. International organizations continue to advocate for stronger protections for journalists to uphold press freedom and the public’s right to information.

Reference – 

https://rsf.org/en/drc-rsf-deeply-concerned-about-disappearance-journalist-amisi-musada

https://allafrica.com/stories/202504220030.html

Urgent need for justice following brutal abduction of journalist Émérite Amisi Musada