Ezatullah Zawab, also known as ʻIzzat Allāh Żwāb, is a notable journalist from Jalalabad, the capital of Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. His career has been marked by both commendable achievements and significant challenges, particularly regarding press freedom in the country.
In 2003, Zawab was selected for journalism training by the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR). This opportunity equipped him with essential skills and knowledge that would later serve as a foundation for his work as a correspondent. He became known for his contributions to Pajhwok Afghan News, an independent news service, and served as the editor for the monthly publication, Meena.
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However, Zawab’s journalism soon attracted unwanted attention from local authorities. On September 2, 2005, he was apprehended by local officials following the publication of an article that criticized local clerics and officials. This act of reporting, which should have been protected under the principles of press freedom, instead led to severe repercussions. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned his arrest, emphasizing the threat it posed to journalistic integrity in Afghanistan. Ann Cooper, the CPJ’s Executive Director, called for Zawab’s immediate and unconditional release, stating, “This is a blow to press freedom and sends the wrong message to other reporters in Afghanistan and to the international community.”
Zawab’s ordeal did not end with his arrest. A week after his capture, he was discovered beaten and unconscious in a ditch, a clear indication of the violent repercussions he faced for his work. Upon his release, Zawab recounted his harrowing experience of being kidnapped by unidentified gunmen. He described being held blindfolded in a basement, where he was subjected to threats and intense interrogation regarding his articles. He was particularly questioned about his criticisms of the mujahideen and local clerics, reflecting the dangers journalists face when challenging powerful figures.
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Despite these grave threats to his safety, Ezatullah Zawab remains a significant figure in the landscape of Afghan journalism. His commitment to truth and accountability continues to resonate, inspiring other journalists to uphold the principles of press freedom in a challenging environment. As Afghanistan navigates its complex socio-political landscape, the importance of voices like Zawab’s cannot be overstated. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the risks taken by journalists around the world in pursuit of truth and transparency.