Targeted for years by supporters of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide's government, private radio stations in Haiti are cautiously returning to the airwaves following a rebellion that left more than 300 dead and forced the embattled leader to flee.
But fear of attacks against journalists who used to work for pro-government stations still lingers in the traumatized nation where the media and government have long been at odds.
"These journalists are hiding from ... anyone with a gun or a grievance," said Joanne Mariner, Americas director for New York-based Human Rights Watch.
During the monthlong revolt that led to Aristide's ouster on Feb. 29, more than a dozen journalists were either threatened or attacked, including a Spanish television reporter who was killed when shots broke out during a demonstration held to celebrate Aristide's departure.
The shooting was blamed on Aristide militants, but US Marines say they also returned fire.
Under Aristide's administration, at least two journalists were killed -- including well-known radio host Jean Dominique -- and several others considering to hold an anti-Aristide bias were attacked. Dozens went into hiding or left the country, fearing for their lives.
Some reported getting anonymous calls with the sounds of guns clicking on the other end. Others were in radio stations while attackers sprayed the buildings with gunfire.
"I'm still afraid of Aristide's supporters," said Romney Cajuste, a reporter for the private station Radio Metropole who was kidnapped by armed thugs claiming to be Aristide loyalists. "They've told us we'll collect our punishment at the cemetery."
Since Aristide's departure, many say they feel safer to do their jobs but some journalists who worked for pro-government stations still fear reprisals.
In northern Cap-Haitien, where rebels maintain a strong presence, two radio stations linked to Aristide's Lavalas Family party were torched by residents and shot up by rebels.
Throughout decades of turmoil, radio has been one of few reliable mediums in this impoverished nation of 8 million. More than 150 stations operate in Haiti, made all the more vital since a little more than half of Haitians can read, and few can afford televisions.
"Everything happens on the radio here. People call and complain to radio stations instead of going to the police," said Dadou Jean-Bart, owner of the private Radio Galaxy.
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