**Closure of Radio Station in Lisala Shocks OLPA**
Kinshasa, January 13, 2025 – The Observatoire de la Liberté de la Presse en Afrique (OLPA), a non-governmental organization dedicated to defending and promoting press freedom, was taken aback by the sudden closure of Radio Liberté Lisala, a private station broadcasting in Lisala, the capital of the Mongala province in the northwest of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The media outlet was sealed on January 9, 2025, by elements of the Congolese National Police (PNC/Mongala) carrying a requisition from Mr. Romain Atongoli Mongomba, the Mayor of Lisala.
**Police Action Leads to Closure**
Major Jules Bayita, a senior police officer tasked with executing the Mayor’s order, arrived at the radio station’s headquarters and instructed the journalists present to immediately cease broadcasts and vacate the premises. The requisition, dated January 9, 2025, and addressed to the police commander, called for the securing of Radio Liberté Lisala to maintain public order.
**Provocative Broadcast Leads to Shutdown**
The closure stemmed from the broadcast on January 8, 2025, of a program titled “La Voix de la Liberté” hosted by journalist Shadrack Kpili. During the show, the presenter and guests Michael Ambalu, Siméon Mopatonga, Reagan Apua, and Martin Kasongo – a journalist, the president of the Youth Parliament of Mongala, and young opinion leaders, respectively – levied sharp criticisms against Provincial Interior Minister Baudouin Yenga. They accused the minister of failing to address the escalating insecurity and land disputes plaguing the territories of Lisala and Bongandanga, with devastating consequences.
**OLPA Condemns Shutdown and Demands Reopening**
OLPA strongly denounces the abrupt halt to Radio Liberté Lisala’s broadcasts, viewing it as a violation of the freedom of information enshrined in national and international human rights laws. Consequently, OLPA demands the immediate and unconditional reopening of the media outlet and urges authorities in Mongala to uphold press freedom.
As we reflect on the closure of Radio Liberté Lisala, it’s crucial to recognize the vital role that media plays in fostering transparency, accountability, and democracy within societies. The silencing of voices that dare to speak truth to power not only stifles freedom of expression but also undermines the fundamental principles of democracy. It is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists and media organizations in environments where press freedom is under threat.
Imagine a world where journalists are unable to shine a light on corruption, injustice, and human rights abuses. It is a world devoid of accountability, where those in power operate unchecked and unchallenged. The closure of Radio Liberté Lisala serves as a wake-up call for all those who value the principles of free speech and a vibrant, independent media.
To support press freedom and defend the right to information, it is incumbent upon each of us to speak out against censorship and repression. Whether through social media advocacy, grassroots activism, or supporting independent media outlets, we can all play a part in safeguarding the democratic values that underpin our societies. Let us stand in solidarity with journalists and media organizations facing threats to their work and continue to amplify their voices in the pursuit of truth and justice.