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UN official welcomes pardon of journalists in Sudan

03 September 2011 03:40 (UTC +04:00)

Baku-APA. Margot Wallstrom, special representative of the secretary-general on sexual violence in conflict, welcomed a pardon issued by Sudan to detained journalists according to a statement released, APA reports.

"The presidential pardon issued on 27 August to representatives of the Sudanese press is welcome news," said Wallstrom. "It is an important signal of respect for freedom of expression by the Sudanese government. I hope that the pardon will be extended to all media representatives and acted upon without delay."

Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir issued the pardon, which released journalists detained in his country.

Wallstrom said that the pardon should "pave the way" for further public debate in Sudan, particularly on topics that are " traditionally regarded as taboo."

"In particular, public discussion on sexual violence must not be stifled," she said. "The journalists working to break the silence about acts of alleged rape should be seen as allies and partners. Our common enemy is the conspiracy of silence that too often surrounds this crime. I reiterate that rapists -- not reporters -- must face criminal charges in Sudan."

Wallstrom explained that her office would like to work with Sudanese authorities to ensure that incidents of sexual violence are discussed.

"My office looks forward to working with the Sudanese authorities to deepen reporting and analysis of sexual violence as a basis for meaningful action," she said. "Such action will benefit the women of Sudan and their families and communities as a whole."