Former news editor of GMN Francisco Simões Belo
IFJ - The news editor for National Media Group (GMN) in Timor Leste was dismissed on September 27 due to his role as the Timor Leste Press Union (TLPU) representative on the Press Council. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate the TLPU condemn the dismissal of the editor and call for his immediate reinstatement.
Francisco Simões Belo, news editor of GMN received a letter from GMN information director Francedes Sun on September 27 stating that he was dismissed from his position because his role with the Press Council did not benefit GMN. The letter also said that Francisco could not concentrate on the GMN newsroom, while he was representing journalists at the Press Council.
Francisco was elected by TLPU members to represent TLPU on the Press Council. He has registered his case and mediation is due to begin on October 29, 2018.
The IFJ said: “The sacking of a journalist for simply fighting for the rights of fellow journalists is outrageous. Francisco has worked hard for journalists across Timor Leste, and should not be punished for this work. We demand GMN immediately reinstate his employment.”.
This story originally published in the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).
