The committee denounced the present "government" for detaining and bringing accusations against Ri Chang Gi, representative of Jaju Minbo, on charges of violation of the "security law" after searching his house and office.

The crackdown is a trite method of the present "government" to tide over the ruling crisis before the end of term by creating terror-ridden atmosphere under the pretext of public security, it accused.

It is unpardonable as it goes against the June 15 joint declaration and October 4 declaration, the committee said, and went on:

Jaju Minbo will never be browbeaten by the suppression by the Lee Myung Bak "government" but will keep advancing, not stepping back despite whatever suppression and hardships.

It urged the authorities to stop the suppression of the progressive media working for the implementation of the south-north joint declaration and immediately release Ri Chang Gi.

It declared it would launch various movements including solidarity action with victims of the "security law", symposium for ensuring the press activities of Jaju Minbo and activities of stirring up the world public opinion.