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December 16, 1998
His Excellency Blaise Compaore
President of the Republic of Burkina Faso
01 BP 24 Ouagadougou
Burkina Faso
Your Excellency:
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) writes to express its deep
shock and grave concern over the December 13, 1998, death of Norbert
Zongo, editor in chief of the leading opposition weekly L'Independent.
Zongo was found dead in his vehicle on the road between Sapouy and Ouagadougou.
Also found dead inside the vehicle were Zongo's brother,
his chauffeur, and a fourth unidentified person. According to initial reports,
the bodies of the four victims were charred. The outside of
the vehicle, however, was not charred. Furthermore, the rear door was pierced
with holes, which may have been produced by gunfire. Based on
this information, CPJ suspects that Zongo and his companions were
murdered.
As a nonpartisan organization of journalists dedicated to the defense
of our colleagues worldwide, CPJ strongly urges Your Excellency to immediately
launch a thorough and impartial investigation into Zongo's
death. We further urge Your Excellency to ensure that those responsible
for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice.
Thank you for your attention. We welcome your comments.
Sincerely,
Ann K. Cooper
Executive Director
Join CPJ in Protesting Attacks on
the Press in Burkina Faso
Send a letter to:
His Excellency Blaise Compaore
President of the Republic of Burkina Faso
01 BP 24 Ouagadougou
Burkina Faso
VIA FAX: 011-226-310578
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