In Libya, media freedom isn't bulletproof

After decades of severe censorship, media outlets are embracing the opportunity to broadcast freely. But they still have no protection if they anger powerful people.

Staff at Al Aseema TV had just finished a late-night broadcast when dozens of gunmen barged in, ordered them out of the building, set fire to the studios, and fired rocket-propelled grenades at the windows.

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Station managing director Mahmud Salam was on his way home when he got notice that the building was under attack. He arrived minutes later to shaken employees in the yard and windows belching smoke. There was no explanation, but the gunmen's message was clear: Stop broadcasting.

For Libyan journalists, freedom to offend is an improvement on Muammar Qaddafi's severe censorship. But attacks like the one on Al Aseema have become a persistent occupational hazard. Armed groups are flourishing, and the weak government can't protect journalists.

At least eight journalists, including Al Aseema owner Jumaa al Usta andnews managerMohamed Hooni, were briefly abducted in 2013, and one of the eight was killed, according the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists.

But media outlets are still reveling in their new freedom, and they can see their impact growing, says Mr. Hooni.

Al Aseema is the biggest station in terms of viewers, and thats more powerful than any weapon, he says. When you report the news, you move the street.

Media coverage of militia gunfights in Tripoli last November, which left several civilians dead, helped trigger protests that prompted several powerful militias to withdraw from the city. With Libya still in chaotic transition, the news often has big implications.On Sundaythe countrys interim parliament appointed Libyas fourth prime minister since elections in 2012.

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In Libya, media freedom isn't bulletproof