Sunday, June 21, 2009

COLOMBIA: OUTSPOKEN JOURNALIST GUNNED DOWN

COLOMBIA: OUTSPOKEN JOURNALIST GUNNED DOWN

A journalist who is also a local community leader was killed in southern
Colombia last month, report the Foundation for Press Freedom (FLIP) and the
Inter American Press Association (IAPA).

Two hitmen burst into the home of Hernando Salas Rojas, director of the
Curillo municipality's local television station, in Caquetá department, on
20 May and fired several shots at him.

Salas was Salas was also the president of a committee calling for the
recall of the local mayor, Esneider Mayorga, for alleged wrongdoing.
According to FLIP, Salas's murder may be linked to his political and
community-related activities.

FLIP called the assassination "a serious affront to freedom of expression"
and is urging the Attorney General's office to investigate the incident and
ensure that those responsible are identified.

Related stories on IFEX.org:
- Journalist and community leader killed in Caquetá department:
http://www.ifex.org/colombia/2009/06/10/salas_rojas_murdered/

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