A Catholic-run radio in Maridi County of Western Equatoria State was shut down last Sunday after the staff downed their tools following a row with the management over unpaid dues.
Anisa FM is a member of the Catholic Radio Network and was established in January 2018 by the Catholic Diocese of Tambura Yambio, producing religious, entertainment, and educative content for the people of Maridi.
The radio director Fr. Dominic Sasa told Radio Tamazuj that on 8th January 2021, the radio staff deserted the station and made away with some equipment, prompting the shutdown.
“They are claiming dues that are not official. So, they said since they are not getting the money, they will leave. But from our side, we have been paying their incentives monthly. So, the Bishop advised that we shut down until investigations are done,” Fr. Sasa said.
He added, “This is a radio for the communities to benefit. If we allow them to come back, they will break the radio the same day. That is why we said we need to investigate and find out if they can come and work, if we see that they are not able we shall recruit other capable people.”
Major Sebit, the station manager, speaking on behalf of the staff disputed the director’s statement. He said they were promised USD 100 monthly incentives for over a year, but that has not been honored.
“We are not ready to come back to work because they are not transparent with us. Unless in front of our Bishop because the promise was made there. So, we need our arrears for one year and seven months and a contract, then we will come back and continue as usual but at the moment we say no,” Sebit stressed.
Clari Dawa, a listener in Maridi urged the radio management and staff to come to an agreement soon and put the radio back on air saying the people learn a lot from the radio programs and news.