Condemnation of Injustice: The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate Stands Against the Suspension of Lina Yaqoub

The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has strongly condemned the recent action by the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism in suspending journalist Lina Yaqoub, chief of the Sudan bureau of Al Arabiya and Al Hadath channels, and revoking her press card.
The Syndicate regards this as a significant blow to press freedom and a disregard for the people’s right to information, especially during the current turbulent times in Sudan.
Despite the Ministry’s explanations, the Syndicate argues that the decision sets a troublesome precedent by using amorphous concepts like “national security” and “public interest” to restrict independent journalism.
“It is against international standards of freedom of expression,” said the Syndicate in its statement, adding, “The Ministry doesn’t present concrete evidence.”
It is also concerning that the timing of the decision followed a coordinated online attack on Yaqoub, revealing a likely political motivation for the move.
The Syndicate emphasizes that such acts contribute to a hostile environment for journalists, which has intensified since the war broke out in the nation. This hostile environment jeopardizes the safety of journalists and discourages their invaluable work of reporting important events.
“It is the duty of the authorities to ensure safety and professional freedom,” read the statement.
The Syndicate urges regional and global organizations dedicated to freedom of the press to rally in support of Lina Yaqoub and demand protection for journalists in Sudan.