We Condemn Ion Chicu’s Offensive Attacks on the Media and Call for an End to Inappropriate Public Discourse

We, the undersigned media non-governmental organizations, strongly condemn the unacceptable and offensive remarks made by Ion Chicu, leader of the Party for Development and Consolidation of Moldova (PDCM). His use of insults, derogatory labels, and baseless defamatory accusations against multiple media outlets represents a direct attack on press freedom and responsible journalism.

We urge Mr. Chicu to adopt a respectful and responsible approach in his public discourse and to issue a public apology to the media organizations targeted by his inappropriate and hostile statements.

On February 25, in response to a news report about the Ombudsman’s reaction to cases of journalist intimidation in Gagauzia, Ion Chicu once again engaged in inflammatory rhetoric, using offensive language and false allegations against Laf, Nokta, and Ziarul de Gardă.

We express our deep concern over this recurring pattern of behavior and remind Mr. Chicu that this is not the first instance of his unacceptable attacks on the media (2020, 2023, 2024).

We call on Mr. Chicu to publicly apologize to the affected media outlets and to commit to a more respectful and appropriate manner of engagement with journalists and press institutions. Any form of hostility or intolerance towards the media is unacceptable in a democratic society.

SIGNATORY ORGANIZATIONS:

Independent Journalism Center

Association of Independent Press

Association of Electronic Press

Access-Info Center

Association of Environmental and Ecological Tourism Journalists

Press Freedom Committee

Media-Guard Association

Center for Investigative Journalism

RISE Moldova