Investigation into Murdered Journalist Raises Press Freedom Concerns in Haiti
The press freedom organization, SOS Journalistes, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing death threats against Justice Robert Jourdain, who is investigating the murder of journalist and political analyst Garry Tess. Tess, who hosted a political program on Radio Lebon FM in Les Cayes, went missing on October 18, 2022, and his lifeless body was discovered a week later on October 24 outside the city.
SOS Journalistes is calling on the government and the Superior Council of the Judiciary to take the necessary administrative and security measures to protect Judge Jourdain and ensure the success of his crucial investigation. Secretary General Joseph Guyler C Delva emphasized the importance of the investigation for both journalists and society as a whole. SOS Journalistes is also urging Judge Jourdain not to withdraw from the case and to continue his investigation until it is concluded within a reasonable time frame.
The organization is pressing the executive and judicial authorities to act swiftly to prevent any perception of collusion with the journalist’s killers. SOS Journalistes believes that such actions would undermine press freedom and freedom of expression, which should be denounced worldwide. Seeking international support, SOS Journalistes has called upon media organizations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists, the International Press Institute, and the Inter American Press Association to back its plea for the protection of Judge Jourdain.
Meanwhile, journalist Guerlan Hyppolite remains imprisoned in Les Cayes prison for over eight months, even though there is no evidence linking him to the events surrounding Garry Tess’s assassination. SOS Journalistes urges Judge Robert Jourdain to secure the journalist’s release, citing the law that supports this action.
In a positive development, media owner Pierre-Louis Opont, who was kidnapped on June 20, has been released. SOS Journalistes welcomes this news but emphasizes that the despicable act of kidnapping must be eradicated in Haiti, as it has unfortunately become somewhat normalized.
The organization insists that justice must be served in the case of Garry Tess, as his murder represents a significant impasse. By resolving the case promptly, Haiti can deter future crimes against journalists and media workers. SOS Journalistes asserts that chronic impunity must not prevail.
SOS Journalistes intends to continue advocating for press freedom in Haiti and to fight against kidnapping and violence targeting journalists. The organization views collaboration between the government, judiciary, and media organizations as crucial in ensuring a free and safe environment for journalists to carry out their work.
The situation in Haiti highlights the pressing need for countries around the world to protect press freedom and condemn the perpetrators of violence against journalists. Without a free press, societies risk losing a vital pillar of democracy and accountability.
