Statement of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Kai Eide

9 Sep 2009

Statement of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Kai Eide

9 September 2009 - I am greatly saddened by today’s news of the death of Sultan Munadi, killed during a rescue operation to free him and New York Times journalist Stephen Farrell from Taliban captivity.

دری و پشتو

 

Sultan’s death is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by media personnel working in Afghanistan, often in circumstances of considerable personal risk.

I appeal to local authorities and insurgent groups alike to respect the rights of journalists to go about their work. Media personnel, whether Afghan or foreign, should not be obstructed in the carrying out of their lawful and professional duties and should be treated as neutral and independent actors. Above all, their safety must not be placed in jeopardy.