UNAMA condemns attack on journalists

5 Apr 2014

UNAMA condemns attack on journalists

KABUL - The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) strongly condemns the abhorrent attack on two international journalists today, which left one dead and the other wounded.

The two journalists – photographer Anja Niedringhaus and reporter Kathy Gannon, both Associated Press staff members – were shot in the Tani district of Khost province in eastern Afghanistan, where they were covering the country’s Presidential and Provincial Council elections set to take place on 5 April.

“I am outraged by this terror attack on civilians,” said the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of UNAMA, Ján Kubiš. “The journalists were going about their work, informing the world how Afghan citizens are exercising their right to shape a better future for themselves, their children and their country.”

“This attack is a huge loss for Afghanistan – both journalists were highly respected and were very well known for their professionalism, love and appreciation of the Afghan people and dedication to telling Afghanistan's story,” he added.

UNAMA expresses its condolences to the family and colleagues of Ms. Niedringhaus and wishes a speedy recovery for Ms. Gannon.