H.E. Blaise Compaore
President of the Republic of Burkino Faso
Ouagadougou
Burkina Faso

Vienna, 17 December 1998

Your Excellency,

The International Press Institute (IPI); the global network of media executives, is deeply shocked by the death of Norbert Zongo, editor-in-chief of the weekly L’Independent, on 13 December 1998.

Zongo was found dead in his vehicle on the road between Sapouy and Ouagadougou. Also found dead were Zongo’s brother and chauffeur, as well as a fourth unidentified person. We understand that four bodies were charred, while the outside of the vehicle was not burnt. We also understand that the rear door of the car was pierced with holes, which may have been produced by bullets.

Zongo, who was also president of the Association of Independent Newspapers (SEP), had received death threats in the past and had recently published articles critical of the authorities.

Given the circumstances surrounding his death, IPI suspects that Zongo and the others were murdered. We therefore urge Your Excellency to authorise an immediate and thorough investigation into Zongo’s killing and to ensure that those responsible for this crime are brought to justice.

We thank you for your attention.

Yours sincerely,

Johann P. Fritz
Director