Angola uses penal code against journalists
The constitution guarantees free expression, but courts are used to silence critical reporting on corruption.
Angolan authorities are systematically using the Penal Code to prosecute journalists, despite the Constitution guaranteeing freedom of expression and the press. This practice violates the nation's international commitments on regional and global levels. The government frequently initiates criminal cases for insult, defamation, or slander against private and independent media professionals when they expose corruption, nepotism, or abuses of power.
Journalists in Angola face spurious accusations like insult, slander, or defamation when they report on public funds being misused by politicians and corrupt groups. These actions are often protected by a justice system described as a 'partidocracy'. In real democracies, public scrutiny is a duty of the press and a right of citizens, not a crime.
The persistent criminalization of speech in Angola inverts this fundamental logic under the guise of protecting 'honour'. This instrumentalizes courts to neutralize investigative journalism and silence critical voices. This practice directly ignores principles in articles 40 and 44 of the Angolan Constitution, which cover freedom of expression, information, and the press.
Why it mattersJournalists in Angola are facing criminal charges for reporting on corruption and abuse of power, undermining press freedom.