OSCE media representative alarmed by killing of Russian journalist, calls for action to protect media professionals
VIENNA, 16 December 2011 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, condemned today the killing of journalist Khadzhimurad Kamalov in Russia’s southern republic of Daghestan and urged the authorities to ensure the safety of all media professionals working in the region.
The founder of the independent Chernovik weekly, Kamalov was shot on the night of 15 to 16 December near the newspaper’s editorial offices in Makhachkala and died on his way to hospital. Law enforcement agencies have opened a murder investigation and police have launched a search for the killer and possible accomplices.
“I am alarmed by this murder, which targets a newspaper known for its investigative reporting,” Mijatović said.
Two years ago, Kamalov and several other media professionals were threatened with death by the authors of anonymous leaflets that circulated in Makhachkala.
“Daghestan and the Northern Caucasus are known to be among the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. I am confident that the Russian authorities will not only investigate Kamalov’s killing and bring the perpetrators to justice but they will also take pre-emptive measures to ensure that journalists working in the region can carry out their professional duties safely and without fear. My Office is ready to support the Russian authorities on this and other media freedom related issues,” said Mijatović.
Mijatović extended her condolences to Kamalov’s family, friends and colleagues.