March 31, 2025
In parallel with the threats directed towards their fellow prosecutors by the president, the Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office is leading an investigation aimed at uncovering who spread “false information” to the public about the use of sonic weapons at the large student and citizen protest of 15th March, accusing them of the criminal offence of “causing panic and disorder”.
Individual media outlets and NGOs have announced that a large number of citizens reported to health institutions following the 15th March protest with injuries that could be consistent with the use of sonic weapons.
Government representatives insist that sonic weapons were not used, but rather the stampede that erupted at the protest was a result of panic.
It is particularly peculiar that the prosecution service launched its investigation into the alleged incitement of panic prior to even attempting to determine if weapons were used against protesters during the protests and, if so, what kind.
The Coalition for Media Freedom, ANEM, Civic Initiatives and the Youth Initiative for Human Rights have all assessed that such action on the part of public prosecutors could have far-reaching consequences for media freedom and freedom of expression.
“The establishing of a case over the spreading of panic prior to the presenting of official information about the event itself could have a negative impact on the informing of the public and represents direct pressure on, and a threat to, freedom of expression and opinion,” state these organisations in a statement.
