DPP urges promotion of safety of journalists
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Noordin Haji has said that there is need to continue to recognize and implement obligations to protect and safeguard freedom of expression under international law.
Speaking during during the Training of Trainers on freedom of expression and safety of journalists workshop in Nairobi where he was Chief Guest, the DPP SAID The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Convention of Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter of Human and Peoples’ Rights continue to obligate member states to ensure that the right to freedom of expression and the right to access to information are realized subject to any lawful restrictions as may be provided in law.
‘I am particularly pleased that this training shall focus on judicial officers who are key actors in protecting fundamental rights and freedoms including freedom of expression and protection and safety of journalists.
Journalists across the continent many times working under very difficult circumstances have continued to champion the ideal that every African has a right to get information, has a right to be heard and that our leaders are also held to account. And as players in the Criminal Justice System l know that we recognize journalists as essential partners in the administration and achievement of justice.’ Haji said.
He added that promoting the safety of journalists and fighting impunity requires prevention mechanisms and actions to address some of the root causes of violence against journalists. He said it is thus critical that the custodians of justice in the criminal justice sector such as judicial officers continue to develop strategies to protect and promote freedom of expression as enshrined in various international, regional and national legal instruments.
‘This workshop is therefore timely as it will enhance sharing of best practices from different jurisdictions and further strengthen International and Regional cooperation amongst the judges on the prevention and protection of the freedom of expression.’ Haji added.
He said all must continue to recognize and implement their obligations to protect and safeguard freedom of expression under international law. Haji outlined that The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Convention of Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter of Human and Peoples’ Rights continue to obligate member states to ensure that the right to freedom of expression and the right to access to information are realized subject to any lawful restrictions as may be provided in law.
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