Media bill could impose death for local journalists

Rwanda’s 70-member parliament is currently debating the “Media Bill”, which would impose a minimum jail term of 20 years or even death for any local journalist found guilty of using the mass media to incite genocide, the ‘EastAfrican’ newspaper reported on Monday. The bill proposes that any foreign journalist who incites the public to commit genocide should be banned from entering or staying in Rwanda. The bill also proposes that journalists be compelled to reveal their sources. Dr. James Vuningoma, president of the “Association Rwandaise des Journalistes” told ‘The EastAfrican’ that in earlier consultations with the government, nothing regarding a death penalty provision was discussed with journalists. Although the Rwandan government says the bill is intended to pave the way for an independent media, journalists see it as a blow to the freedom of press, according to ‘The East African’. Rwandan press and media outlets are alleged to have played a significant role in inciting the ethnic hatred that culminated in the 1994 genocide. Several journalists are currently on trial at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) in Arusha, Tanzania, on charges of inciting the population to commit genocide. Meanwhile, Rwanda has appointed a legal reform commission to examine all existing laws in the country as part of an ongoing preparation for a change of government in elections to be held in 2003. The country’s constitution is also under review.