Amnesty International on tretament of jouralists by coup regime.

Amnesty have said:

9 October 2009
The de facto Honduran authorities must allow opposition journalists to broadcast as negotiations over the country's political future continue, Amnesty International has said.

Radio Globo and the Canal 36 TV station have been closed since 28 September, after the imposition of a Presidential decree which severely limited freedom of expression, amongst other human rights. The order was verbally revoked on 5 October but Honduran security forces continue to hold equipment from both media outlets.

"There's no legal reason for Radio Globo and Canal 36 to remain closed," said Susan Lee, Americas Director at Amnesty International.

“Ensuring journalists can inform the public, and that freedom of expression is protected, are fundamental issues which must be addressed as part of the ongoing talks.

"Further we also urge Mr Micheletti to entirely rescind the decree by publishing the order in the official Gazette and issue clear instructions to the police and military that they must respect and protect human rights."

Police have told legal representatives of the radio and TV station that the confiscated equipment was required for an investigation. No further information regarding the investigation was provided to them and the media outlets remain closed.