The Jonglei State Ministry of Information has reversed its order, issued on January 8, 2024, requiring approval for all public announcements and advertisements before broadcast on radio or microphones.
The initial directive faced criticism from civil society activists and journalists who deemed it a violation of freedom of expression and access to information.
The decision to revoke the order followed a meeting on January 11, 2024, between the state minister of Information, Elizabeth Nyadak, and representatives from the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) and the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN).
The meeting aimed to address concerns raised by the media and civil society groups, fostering cooperation and dialogue.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Minister Nyadak clarified, “There is no restriction on the media. Let the NGOs continue doing their job, let the businessmen come and advertise whatever they want to advertise, except something which is against Jonglei state culture.”
She highlighted the ministry’s recognition of the crucial role played by the media and civil society in advancing peace, development, and democracy in the state.
Achol Kur, the Secretary General of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan in Jonglei State, commended the ministry’s decision and appreciated the minister’s willingness to engage with the media and civil society.
“Access to information and freedom of expression are guaranteed by the government according to the articles cited in the documents. If we adhere to these principles, we can work within the framework of the constitution of South Sudan, avoiding conflicts,” Kur said.
Upholding their commitment, Kur stated that UJOSS would persist in advocating for the rights and welfare of journalists while promoting the fundamental principles of journalism within the state.
Bol Deng Bol, the Chairperson of advocacy group INTREPID-South Sudan, expressed satisfaction with the meeting’s outcome and the subsequent revocation of the order.
In a statement, he thanked Minister Elizabeth Nyadak Jock, the Ministry’s Director General, and the Union of Journalists of South Sudan, Jonglei State branch for the breakthrough. Bol expressed hope for continued collaboration to prevent a return to previous control issues.
Bol pledged to work with the ministry and other stakeholders to ensure that the citizens of Jonglei State have access to accurate and reliable information. He urged the ministry to respect and safeguard the freedom of expression and opinion of the people.
The directive to restrict public announcements was initially issued by the director general of the state ministry of Information and Communication, Mhamad Chuol Peter. He stated that the order aimed to enhance communication channels and prevent random announcements that might incite conflict or hatred in the public.
However, the media and civil society criticized the order, viewing it as a form of censorship and interference. They expressed concerns that such restrictions could compromise the independence and credibility of the media.
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