Updated: 10 January 2026 10:01:48
Sudan: Call for the Release of Journalist Muammar Ibrahim
Moatinoon
International human rights organisations, including the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), within the framework of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists, have expressed grave concern over the continued detention of Sudanese journalist Muammar Ibrahim by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
According to a joint statement, Mr. Ibrahim has been held since 26 October 2025, following his arrest in El-Fasher, North Darfur, while he was attempting to leave the city amid ongoing hostilities.
The organisations reported that a video circulated on social media on the day of his arrest showed Muammar Ibrahim in the presence of RSF fighters, in which he identified himself and confirmed that he was being detained. A subsequent video later emerged showing him under questioning, stating that he had been transferred to Nyala, South Darfur. These videos remain the only publicly available information regarding his whereabouts.
The organisations expressed deep concern over the lack of verified information about Mr. Ibrahim’s health, legal status, and conditions of detention. Since his arrest, he has reportedly been held largely incommunicado, without access to his family or legal counsel, raising serious fears for his safety and well-being.
The statement stressed that journalists are civilians and are entitled to protection under international humanitarian law. Parties exercising control over detainees bear full responsibility for ensuring humane treatment, including safeguarding physical integrity and providing access to necessary medical care.
The organisations urged the RSF to immediately and unconditionally release Muammar Ibrahim and to ensure his safety and physical well-being. They also called on all parties to the conflict in Sudan to respect the work of journalists and to refrain from actions that endanger media workers.
Protecting journalists, the statement noted, is essential for promoting transparency and accountability and plays a vital role in safeguarding civilians during armed conflict. Taking prompt and humane action in this case would help alleviate growing concerns over Mr. Ibrahim’s health and represent an important step toward reducing harm to journalists operating in Sudan.
