Audio By Carbonatix
Newspapers, radio and TV in the Democratic Republic of Congo have shut down to protest at a hike in internet prices.
The price hike soared by at least 35%, a situation the Press Union referred to as a breach of the people's right to access information.
The union had called for a "day of no press" but some broadcasters, including the national broadcaster, are still on air.
Civil society has expressed concern.
The call for a news blackout in DR Congo has been largely observed in Goma, the main city in the east, BBC Monitoring reports.
The National Union of the Congolese Press called for a "Lundi Sans Presse" (Monday Without Press).
Radio Pole FM and privately-owned Virunga Business Radio are off air, though earlier in the morning the latter was carrying a relay of Radio France Internationale's news broadcast.
Tayna Community Radio and Television has only been playing music while the UN-sponsored Radio Okapi did not follow the call.
The BBC's Maud Jullien reports that the blackout comes after concerns about restrictions to press freedom ahead of elections in November.
The telecoms regulator has since called on mobile operators to reduce their prices, saying the move had violated regulations.
In an interview with Radio Okapi, government spokesman Lambert Mende said mobile service providers had raised the internet charges independently, and were not influenced by the government.
Latest Stories
-
Adom FM’s ‘Strictly Highlife’ lights up La Palm with rhythm and nostalgia in unforgettable experience
19 minutes -
Ghana is rising again – Mahama declares
5 hours -
Firefighters subdue blaze at Accra’s Tudu, officials warn of busy fire season ahead
6 hours -
New Year’s Luv FM Family Party in the park ends in grand style at Rattray park
6 hours -
Mahama targets digital schools, universal healthcare, and food self-sufficiency in 2026
6 hours -
Ghana’s global image boosted by our world-acclaimed reset agenda – Mahama
6 hours -
Full text: Mahama’s New Year message to the nation
6 hours -
The foundation is laid; now we accelerate and expand in 2026 – Mahama
6 hours -
There is no NPP, CPP nor NDC Ghana, only one Ghana – Mahama
7 hours -
Eduwatch praises education financing gains but warns delays, teacher gaps could derail reforms
7 hours -
Kusaal Wikimedians take local language online in 14-day digital campaign
8 hours -
Stop interfering in each other’s roles – Bole-Bamboi MP appeals to traditional rulers for peace
8 hours -
Playback: President Mahama addresses the nation in New Year message
8 hours -
Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union call for strong work ethics, economic participation in 2026 new year message
10 hours -
Crossover Joy: Churches in Ghana welcome 2026 with fire and faith
10 hours
