Senegal media sound alarm with news blackout

Senegalese news organisations widely heeded a call Tuesday for a news blackout to protest against economic measures by the new government which they say threaten the industry.

Most newspapers did not publish and two popular private radio stations played music instead of broadcasting the news.

Private television stations such as TFM, ITV and 7 TV demonstrated solidarity with the protest by displaying its slogan and image — three raised fists gripping a pencil.

The Senegalese Council of Press Distributors and Publishers (CDEPS) said in a joint editorial published on Monday that the freedom of the press was “threatened in Senegal”.

The body, which groups editors of private and public companies, complained that the authorities, who came to power in April, were “freezing the bank accounts” of media companies for non-payment of tax.

It also condemned the “seizure of production equipment”, the “unilateral and illegal termination of advertising contracts” and the “freezing of payments” due to the media.

“The aim is none other than to control information and tame media professionals,” the CDEPS said.

Pro-government daily Le Soleil was among several newspapers that did not follow the “Day Without Press” action.

Senegal’s media sector has long faced economic difficulties and many reporters complain of precarious working conditions.

Last month, the company behind two of the most widely read sports dailies suspended publication after more than 20 years due to economic difficulties.