Miami (June 4, 2004).- The Inter American Press Association (IAPA), condemns the acts of violence against the media reported on Thursday in Venezuela and called upon officials to guarantee security and immediately investigate these incidents.
Following yesterdays announcement from the National Electoral Council on the validation of signatures for the recall referendum election next August, alleged government supporters attacked offices and damaged property at Así es la Noticia and El Nacional newspapers, Radio Caracas Televisión, and 2001 newspaper.
We condemn attacks of violence, those disrespecting the citizens decisions try to get attention not through dialogue or peace, but through destruction and intolerance, asserted Rafael Molina, chairman of the Committee on Freedom of the Press and Information.
Molina, from El Nacional newspaper in the Dominican Republic asked publicly those parties involved for, good sense and respect in these tense times and determination to guarantee democracy in Venezuela. One of the signs of respect for freedom of expression on the part of government officials would be conducting an investigation to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the violence.
According to information from the press, offices were damaged at the headquarters
of Así es la Noticia and 16 vehicles destroyed; two trucks from Radio
Caracas Televisión were set on fire; windows and the main entrance of
El Nacional newspaper were also damaged; and two vehicles and one truck from
2001 newspaper were broken into and set on fire.
FUENTE: nota.texto7
