Event Summary
Since early July 2025, Ms. Rosie Pioth, an independent journalist and France 24 correspondent in Brazzaville and Director of Checking Congo has reportedly been the target of persistent threats. This intimidation campaign appears to be directly linked to her investigation into the 1982 bomb attacks in Brazzaville. The investigation, planned for release in a series of instalments, began publication on 17 July 2025.
According to reports, threats have taken several forms: SMS messages ordering her to halt the investigation under threat of death, anonymous phone calls late at night, unknown individuals visiting her neighborhood to gather information about her residence, and even surveillance.
As a result, the journalist has been forced to flee the country to ensure the safety of herself and her family, thereby halting the continuation of her investigation.
The Journalism and Ethics Congo (JEC) issued a statement condemning the attack and calling for action from Congolese authorities, international community and Congolese journalists.
This case is deeply concerning as it signals a broader climate of fear and repression in which independent journalism is not only discouraged but actively punished – posing a grave threat to the future of press freedom in the Republic of Congo.