The former President of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan, Oliver Modi, is calling on the government to provide a conducive environment for journalists and protect them.
Modi was speaking during the closing of a three-day journalism training in Yambio, Western Equatoria State on Thursday.
“All we need is cooperation as government to make sure that journalists should work without limitation, harassment, being detained, arbitrary arrests which was the order of the day in Juba. The problem in South Sudan is people don’t want the truth and the independent journalist should have a right to access information and the freedom of expression," he said.
Modi decried poor working environment for journalists in the country, which led to arrests, torture, and even death of some journalists while others fled the country fearing for their lives.
With the training received in Yambio, Modi said the journalists are now equipped to do their work following journalistic ethics and a general understanding of basic journalism.
"These journalists have learned lessons on ethics, peace reporting, basic journalism. I believe they are better than who they were before they attended the training. So we expect them to work in a peaceful environment so that they can deliver more," he added.
For his part, the Governor of Western Equatoria State Alfred Futuyo Karaba urged the journalists to be professional in their work and verify all information before reporting.
He promised to support the media by ensuring they have transport facilities, equipment, and training needed to improve their work.
The acting Minister of Information and Communication in the state Hon. Eddy Ukele cautioned the journalists saying, "I want to tell you not to abuse the freedom of expression and human rights without responsibility. We need to teach you your responsibilities, you are citizens of this country and you have to be responsible when you carry out your duties.”
Meanwhile, the Head of UNMISS in Western Equatoria State Yambio Field office Christopher Murenge promised to support journalists by providing more training opportunities.
About 30 journalists from Mundri, Maridi, Tambura, and Yambio attended the training organized by UNMISS.