The Reporters Organization for Rights and Development (RORD) condemned the arrest warrants issued by the Ministry of Interior in the Kurdistan Region against Channel8 figures, warning that using telecommunication laws against journalists directly threatens press freedom. 

The Kurdistan Regional Government's Ministry of Interior issued arrest warrants for Channel8 Board Chairman Ahmed Najm and presenter Bzhar Dabax on Sunday under Article 2 of the Law on Misuse of Telecommunication Devices. 

The official directive instructs all general directorates of the security forces and relevant authorities across the Kurdistan Region's provinces to enforce the order. 

Channel8 journalists have previously faced several temporary detentions and operational restrictions by regional security forces while on field assignments.

‘Deep Concern' Over Using Telecommunication Law Against Media Figures 

RORD said in a statement that the organization is viewing the warrants “with deep concern,” noting that “applying the Law on Misuse of Telecommunication Devices against journalists constitutes a direct threat to freedom of expression and press freedom.” 

The organization stressed that the law has frequently been utilized to restrict media voices and detain journalists simply for publishing opinions or information.

Media Watchdog Urges Adherence to Journalism Law 

The organization reiterated that any legal actions involving media personnel must strictly adhere to Journalism Law No. 35 of 2007, which establishes the specific framework designed to protect journalistic work and defend media rights.

The statement further emphasized that “no journalist should face the threat of arrest due to their professional duties or the expression of their views.” 

RORD Urges Authorities to Uphold Press Freedom 

RORD urged authorities in the Kurdistan Region to uphold constitutional frameworks and international laws that safeguard freedom of expression and press freedom. 

“Any proceedings involving journalists must be conducted exclusively within the framework of the Journalism Law and the principles of justice,” the statement added.