Employees of the media group La Gazette du Golfe sounded an alarm on Friday, December 29, in Cotonou, urging the lifting of the suspension that has affected all their media outlets (radio, television, and print newspaper). It has been five months since the decision was made, leaving them unemployed during this period.
While the employer has made efforts to provide partial income to the staff, it is deemed insufficient. They are advocating for a swift reopening of their channels.
At the labor exchange, the headquarters of union protests, journalists, technicians, and administrative staff of La Gazette du Golfe gathered with the Beninese press to express their plea, voiced by Aristide Kannousou.
Everything came to a halt on August 8. The group immediately informed its audience: “Hello, La Gazette du Golfe media group is obliged to interrupt its broadcasts.”
On the orders of the HAAC, the media regulatory body, the group was suspended for “apology for a coup d’état.” This occurred when General Tiani had just overthrown Mohamed Bazoum. The coverage of this event in Niger did not sit well.
Now, after five months, and in the eyes of the listeners, it is deemed too long for a so-called provisional measure. They are all demanding the lifting of the suspension. The union representative, present at the press briefing, promises to do everything possible to ensure that the plea reaches the right ears. He announces a series of consultations starting next week.