Statement on Detention of Journalists

The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) regards the detention of two Radio Liberty journalists and their two colleagues as in utter contravention with the principles and foundations enshrined in the Constitution, the Law on Mass Media and Criminal Procedure Code given the non-existence of clear charges against them. The Commission is seriously concerned about the continuation of their detention.

The AIHRC calls on the security authorities especially national security and police forces to protect the security and freedom of journalists within the boundaries of law in order to create a healthy and free political environment during the elections and to ensure the access of people to information.

The Commission requests the Special Attorney Office of the National Security to take serious measure to release the two detained journalists.