The IPI global network calls on Haiti to investigate the killing of journalist Fritz Dorilas. Authorities must determine the motive behind the attack and ensure the safety of journalists in the country.
Dorilas was shot and killed near his home in the northeast of the country鈥檚 capital, Port-au-Prince, on November 5. According to , the circumstances of the killing are not yet clear. Dorilas moderated a programme on Saturdays on Radio Megastar focused on legal issues.
鈥淲e are deeply saddened by the news of Fritz Dorilas鈥檚 death. Haitian authorities must thoroughly investigate the killing, determine the motive, and hold those responsible to account鈥�, IPI Director of Advocacy Amy Brouillette said.
Dorilas鈥檚 killing continues a dark year for the Haitian press. Just days earlier, journalist Romelo Vilsaint was during a protest demanding the release of detained journalist Robest Dimanche in Port-au-Prince. He died after being hit in the head by a tear gas canister fired by police towards protesters.
In September, IPI reported on the brutal killing of Tayson Latigue and Frantzsen Charles, who were fatally shot covering a story on escalating gang violence in Port-au-Prince.
鈥淭his year has seen an alarming escalation of violence against the press in Haiti鈥�, Brouillette said. 鈥淎mid the increasingly dangerous environment for journalists, Haitian authorities must take immediate steps to ensure the press鈥檚 safety.鈥�