The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Wednesday urged security agencies to treat journalists as partners, rather than adversaries.
Speaking during a two-day workshop in Juba, the head of Security Sector Reform at UNMISS-Rule of Law and Security Institutions Section, Mamadou Touré, called on the two sides to think from each other’s perspective and seek cooperation.
“As we embark on this important workshop, let us remember that a strong nation is built on trust, accountability and collaboration. Security institutions and the media are not adversaries, rather they are partners in advancing peace, justice and democracy in South Sudan,” said Touré.
Touré added: “By working together, we can ensure that accurate information reaches the public, security concerns are addressed and the fundamental rights of all citizens, including the rights to free expression, are upheld.”
The South Sudan National Police Services Spokesperson, Col John Kassara Koang Nhial, reaffirmed the police’s commitment to strengthening the cooperation with the media.
“In fact, last time when I talked about the responsibility to police, I clearly stated that my office will cooperate with the media houses in terms of information dissemination,” said Nhial.
“It will be actually a bridge where the civilians will have an access to the police institution, where they can air their opinions and from there, we will be able to know their concerns and the needs of our civilians. We will cooperate with you.”
Last year, South Sudan ranked 136th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
Journalists in South Sudan face a number of security threats, including intimidation, arrest, and harassment. The government’s intolerance of public scrutiny and censorship has created an environment of fear and self-censorship.