UNOCI condemns recent acts of violence against journalists

ABIDJAN, Côte d'Ivoire, November 20, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Côte d'Ivoire and Head of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), Mrs Aïchatou Mindaoudou, condemns the attack against Mr. Désiré Gnonsiohoué of Tomorrow Magazine, on 14 November 2013, which resulted in his death. UNOCI presents its condolences to the victim's family, the Magazine, and the corporation of journalists in Côte d'Ivoire.

UNOCI expresses concern and condemns the kidnapping of Mr. Dieusmonde Tadé, a journalist with the daily newspaper, Le Nouveau Réveil, between 18 and 19 November 2013.

UNOCI urges the competent authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure that those who carried these acts be identified and brought to justice.

UNOCI appeals to all those concerned to work to ensure freedom of information and expression, as well as the right to be informed through a free and plural press.