The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has given its full backing to the Sudanese Union of Journalists (SUJ) in its demands to remove repressive dispositions of the draft of the new press law in Sudan. The draft has led to journalists' protests over clauses considered by media to be punitive.

"We support our colleagues' efforts to get these repressive clauses changed," said Aidan White, IFJ General Secretary. "The strength of the opposition to the new law by the entire Sudanese media is clear evidence the new law is bad for progressive and accountable governance in the country." 

The SUJ, an IFJ affiliate, says that the new law would give wide ranging powers to authorities over media including powers to impose crippling fines, suspension and closures of publications through withdrawal  of licences. The Union is also calling for an end of the practice of government's censors who vet stories before publication.

According to press reports, there is widespread opposition to the new press law in the media community. Journalists took to the streets in Khartoum on Wednesday to condemn the draft law which is being discussed in Parliament. Some law-makers have also voiced their criticism of the media bill, say reports.

The IFJ, in latest report on Breaking the Chains Campaign in the Arab World and Iran, recorded on-going pressure on journalists in Sudan and is urging the Sudanese Parliament to consider proposals for amendments which have been submitted by the SUJ as part of its on-going consultation with law-makers.

"Our colleagues have shown good faith and willingness to work with authorities in the interest of press freedom and democracy in Sudan," added White. "We urge Parliament to seize this unique opportunity to establish media that can contribute to open and credible government ."

For more information contact the IFJ at   +32 2 235 2207       

The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 123 countries worldwide