Call to free two French journalists facing the death penalty in Niger

January 11 2008

The human rights charity Fair Trials International has demanded the immediate release of two French journalists who are facing the death penalty for allegedly undermining state security in Niger.

Thomas Dandois and Pierre Creisson were arrested in Niger on 17 December 2007, while on assignment for the French-German channel ARTE. They have been accused of violating the terms of their media accreditation to film a report about bird flu in South Niger, instead travelling to the country’s Saharan North to interview rebel fighters.

On 21 December 2007, they were formally charged with undermining state security and colluding with armed groups, offences which can attract the death penalty. Together with their driver, they are being held in a penal camp in Kollo, about 15 miles southeast of the capital Niamey, awaiting their first hearing on 16 and 17 January 2008.

According to Lawyer Moussa Coulibaly, who also represents two local journalists accused of links with the MNJ (Movement of Niger people for Peace), “no legal action has been taken against (the group’s leaders, but anyone who has an even remote contact with them is prosecuted for the most serious crimes.”

Speaking on the case, Fair Trials International Chief Executive Catherine Wolthuizen expressed her deep concern at the arrests:

“These charges are disproportionate to the alleged conduct and appear to be aimed at curtailing the journalists’ freedom of expression.

“The arrests come at a time when the Niger authorities have attracted international criticism for their activities in North Niger, which have resulted in the death of many civilians.

Last Thursday, an appeal for clemency was made by France to Niger’s government, calling on it to release the two journalists who were “fulfilling their duty to inform the public”. However, diplomatic relations between France and Niger are deeply strained and Niger’s government has insisted the journalists should face justice.

“Fair Trials International joins the French government, Reporters Without Borders, and the journalists’ support committee in calling for their immediate discharge and release,” concluded Ms Wolthuizen.

For comment, please contact Catherine Wolthuizen on 07846 472 923 or 020 7762 6400

More information can also be found at http://pierre.thomas.alhassane.info