Lesotho Authorities Urged to Retract Statements Criminalizing Media Interviews with Banned Famo Music Groups

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on Lesotho authorities to withdraw statements equating media interviews with outlawed Famo music groups to criminal offenses. This follows a press briefing on May 21 where Deputy Police Commissioner Mahlape Morai stated that publishing interviews with these groups would be a criminal act.

During the briefing, Morai clarified that while media outlets could interview members of the banned groups, sharing those interviews with the public would be akin to promoting illegal activities. However, in a subsequent conversation with CPJ, Morai denied suggesting that the media should not cover the Famo groups, stating, "In my own words, I said whatever you do, make sure you do not encourage or promote the illegal activities that are done by the Famo."

The CPJ has expressed concerns that such statements could be seen as an attempt to censor the press. Muthoki Mumo, CPJ Africa Program Coordinator, emphasized, *"Giving voice to diverse viewpoints is vital to the media's professional duty, and Lesotho police have no business dictating who journalists may or may not interview."*

Why this matters: The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy, and any attempts to censor or restrict it can have far-reaching consequences for the entire society. If Lesotho authorities are allowed to criminalize media interviews with banned groups, it could set a dangerous precedent for press freedom and lead to a chilling effect on journalists' ability to report on sensitive topics.

The controversy stems from the Lesotho government's decision to ban 12 Famo music groups on May 10 under the 1984 Internal Security Act, which allows the home affairs minister to outlaw groups accused of subversive activity. Those convicted of supporting these groups could face between five and 20 years imprisonment and fines up to 100,000 maloti (US$5,340).

Famo music, known for its accordion-based style, is popular in Lesotho but has been linked to criminal activities, including murder. The government's ban followed a series of violent incidents, including the murder of five family members on April 28 in an ongoing feud between rival Famo gangs.

The CPJ is urging Lesotho authorities to provide guarantees that journalists will not face arrest for doing their jobs and to retract statements that could be seen as criminalizing media interviews with banned groups. Such assurances are essential for maintaining press freedom and the ability of journalists to report on diverse viewpoints.

The situation highlights the tension between national security concerns and press freedom in Lesotho. The government's actions have sparked a broader debate about the role of the media in reporting on groups accused of criminal activities and the importance of protecting journalistic integrity.

CPJ continues to advocate for the rights of journalists, the Lesotho government faces pressure to balance its security measures with the need to uphold freedom of the press. The outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications for media practices and civil liberties in the country.

Key Takeaways

• Lesotho authorities threaten to criminalize media interviews with banned Famo music groups.
• CPJ urges authorities to retract statements and ensure journalists' safety.
• Famo music groups were banned due to links to criminal activities, including murder.
• Journalists face 5-20 years imprisonment and fines for supporting banned groups.
• CPJ advocates for press freedom, urging balance between security and journalistic integrity.