Maputo, 18 Jan (AIM) – The Mozambican chapter of the regional press freedom body MISA (Media Institute of Southern Africa) has expressed concern at the disappearance of journalist and political activist Arlindo Chissale, who has been missing since 7 January.
Chissale writes for the online portal “Pinnacle News”. According to information from his family, he left his home in Pemba, capital of the northern province of Cabo Delgado, on 7 January, travelling to Nacala, in the neighbouring province of Nampula.
But he never reached his destination, and the family reported him missing on 16 January.
MISA has urged the authorities to use all means at their disposal to locate the missing journalist, and restore him to freedom in the event that he has been kidnapped or subjected to arbitrary detention.
MISA stresses that freedom of the press and the security of media professionals “are fundamental pillars of democracy and of the rule of law”.
“Any threat to, or violation of these principles is unacceptable and contradicts the provisions of the Mozambican constitution”, it added.
MISA promises to follow the case of Chissale’s disappearance closely, and to press for measures to be taken.
(AIM)
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