Radio Onda Local

Activity
Critical and independent journalism

Attack experienced
Closure of space, Infringement of freedom of expression

THE FACTS – The Onda Local radio program, conducted by journalist Patricia Orozco and broadcast every Friday for the last 17 years by Radio La Primerísima has been taken off the air due to a decision made by the radio’s owner, APRANIC.

On the morning of Monday, April 3rd, with no advance notice, the Onda Local team received a letter from the Board of Directors of the Nicaraguan Radio Broadcasting Professionals Association (APRANIC), which informed us of our program’s cancellation without giving any explanation whatsoever.

“Onda Local” (Local Airwaves) is an independent space that disseminates information, fosters debate and voices the political demands of diverse communities and social sectors. So then, our closure represents an infringement of the Nicaraguan people’s right to freedom of expression and freedom of information. This measure has been taken in conjunction with the closure of other communication spaces in the country.

We, of IM-Defensoras condemn this measure and express our concern over the ongoing closure of communication spaces that favor a plurality of voices in Nicaragua, most especially those of women and feminist organizations.

We call on all international organizations and bodies to express their repudiation of the closure, their solidarity with the Onda Local team, and their respect for freedom of expression in Nicaragua.