DRC: Christian Bosembe bars Joseph Kabila and the FRN from the media

Christian Bosembe, head of the Higher Council for Broadcasting and Communication (CSAC), defended a recommendation barring media outlets from giving a platform to the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), led by Joseph Kabila. He said journalists may report facts, but content that glorifies the movement or encourages support for it could lead to suspensions. Bosembe cited the CSAC’s organic law and said leaders of suspended political parties may speak in a personal capacity, but not on behalf of their parties. He rejected equivalent coverage of the FARDC and the FRN and disputed Reporters Without Borders’ press freedom rankings for the DRC.