The office of Jonglei State Governor Denay Jock Chagor has warned residents against abusing freedom of expression on social media.
Governor Chagor’s office cautioned members of the public against insulting governor on social media platforms.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor’s Press Secretary Ruach Wanlow accused unnamed individuals of spreading false and malicious information about the governor and his administration.
The statement described such unwarranted attacks as “a violation of the constitution and the media laws.”
It warned that anyone found spreading false or malicious information about the governor or his administration will face legal consequences.
Ruach told Radio Tamazuj that the governor respects the right of the people to express their opinions and grievances, but he will not tolerate any personal attacks or insults that undermine his dignity and reputation.
“It has happened many times in different, social media platforms. People are trying to use hate speech and insulting words against the office of the governor, which is not good,” Ruach stated.
“It seems they are acting beyond their freedom of expression rights that they can exercise.”
Ruach said some members of the public have falsely accused Governor Chagor of incompetence and corruption.
He said the governor is working hard to address the challenges facing the state, such as insecurity, inter-communal violence, floods, food insecurity and needs the support and cooperation of all the citizens.
Ruach said that the governor is open to dialogue and criticism, but will not accept any insults or threats to his person or his office.
“We need to summon those people and ask them their reason for behaving that way, their reason for acting beyond their freedom of expression rights. After we talked to them we will then be in position to give you their names,” Ruach said.
Ruach urged the media to always verify their sources of information and adhere to the professional and ethical standards of journalism.
He appealed to the public to support the governor’s efforts to achieve peace, stability and development.