Senegal: TV Presenter Maimouna Ndour Faye Stabbed Multiple Times
Journalist was attacked near her home shortly after TV show broadcast
Location: Senegal, Dakar
Date: February 29, 2024
Women Press Freedom is appalled by the violent assault against well-known television host Maimouna Ndour Faye. The journalist was viciously stabbed multiple times by an unidentified assailant while returning home after a television broadcast. This horrifying incident comes amidst a backdrop of escalating violence and threats against journalists in Senegal. With the postponement of elections by the president earlier this month, tensions have surged, leading to protests and numerous assaults on the press. We unequivocally condemn the heinous attack on Faye and demand an immediate and comprehensive investigation from authorities. We stand in solidarity with Maimouna Ndour Faye and all journalists facing violence, urging for their safety and a swift recovery for Faye.
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On February 29, 2024, Maimouna Ndour Faye, a journalist and Director at the private television channel 7TV, was viciously attacked in Dakar.
According to accounts from Faye’s relatives, an unknown assailant repeatedly stabbed the journalist outside her home following her television program, where she frequently engages in heated political discussions. Images circulating on social media show Faye covered in blood clutching her stomach.
The assault occurred after Faye’s interview with Farba Ngom, a member of parliament and propaganda officer for the ruling APR party. The motive of the attacker is not known. Faye has reported receiving death threats in the past for her outspoken views and probing questions of politicians.
She was swiftly hospitalized for treatment and is in stable condition.
The brutality of the attack against the well-known journalist triggered public outcry and protests.
Senegal President Macky Sall denounced the violent stabbing, calling it a “cowardly and inexcusable act of violence” adding that “freedom of the press is a fundamental right that must be protected and respected in all circumstances."
“Freedom of the press is a fundamental right that must be protected and respected in all circumstances”
This assault follows a disturbing escalation of attacks against journalists and media in recent weeks as Senegal grapples with unrest after presidential elections were postponed. At least 25 journalists were physically assaulted and/or detained by police during widespread protests on February 9, 2024. The unrest erupted across the capital city of Dakar and various other cities, signaling deepening concerns over the future of democracy in one of West Africa's most stable nations. Days earlier, Agora TV’s Sokhna Ndack Mbacké and Itv’s Khadija Ndate Diouf were detained by gendarmerie while reporting on protests in the capital. The journalists faced verbal abuse, confiscation of equipment, and threats of imprisonment from authorities. They were released without charge after a brief detention.
Women Press Freedom vehemently condemns the brutal assault of Maimouna Ndour Faye. Police must act swiftly to identify and charge the person responsible. We express deep concern at the rise in assaults on the press in Senegal in recent weeks. Attacks against journalists must not be allowed to happen with impunity. The Senegalese government needs to take concrete steps to ensure the safety and protection of journalists, uphold press freedom, and investigate all acts of violence against media workers.
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The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.
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