In Memory of Journalists killed

On 16 September 2009 -  the ninth anniversary of Georgy Gongadze’s disappearance, a memorial gathering will be held at 19.00 on Maidan Nezalezhnosti [Independence Square.

The action has taken place each year since 2005, organized by ordinary individuals who knew Georgy Gongadze, those who hold dear the ideals of freedom of speech, independent journalism and civil rights. People who demand justice and the rule of law, people determined to prevent repression and obstruction of journalists, and infringements of freedom of speech by the authorities or by those focused on in journalist investigations. People who reject lies, hypocrisy, concealment of information, lack of transparency in politics and State governance.

All are cordially invited to take part, but solely as individuals, not representing any party, civic organization, etc. As in previous years, people are asked to avoid any party or organization symbols, etc.

The gathering will remember not only Georgy Gongadze, but all Ukrainian journalists killed.  At 20.00 there will be nine minutes of silence,

In view of the arrest of ex-General Pukach, a major figure in the Gongadze case, the participants will also present specific demands to the authorities in order to ensure a comprehensive, objective and thorough investigation of the murder. They will also draw attention to new victims, giving specific examples of threats and repression against journalists from those in power and officials at all levels.