The South Sudan Media Authority has called on all media outlets, including digital platforms, to register ahead of the country’s upcoming elections, saying registration will be a requirement for election coverage and will help protect journalists.
Speaking during a workshop organized by the Presidential Media Office on Sunday, the Director General of the Media Authority, Ajou Luol Akuei, said the Authority is working to establish communication channels between media institutions and security agencies, similar to systems used in other countries.
He said the initiative is intended to improve coordination and reduce misunderstandings between journalists and security personnel while covering public events, particularly during the election period.
“We are working to create communication channels linking the media and security institutions, as is practiced in a number of countries I have visited,” he said.
Luol acknowledged that mistrust and poor communication between media organizations and security agencies have made it difficult to establish such mechanisms in South Sudan. He encouraged journalists to strengthen professional engagement with all security institutions, adding that the Media Authority is committed to bringing the different stakeholders together to promote dialogue and cooperation.
He also urged all media organizations operating in the country to complete their registration before the elections, warning that unregistered outlets would not be permitted to cover the polls through digital and social media platforms. He added that social media platforms are not recognized as media organizations under the current regulatory framework, but those wishing to report on the elections must register with the Media Authority to obtain official recognition.
According to Luol, registration is intended to provide legal recognition and enable the Media Authority to assist accredited journalists should they encounter challenges while performing their duties. He said the Authority would have limited capacity to intervene on behalf of journalists or media outlets that operate without registration.
Luol further cautioned journalists to observe professional and legal standards in their reporting. He warned against publishing reports that unlawfully defame or target individuals, saying such offences could carry severe legal penalties under South Sudanese law, including prison sentences.
He urged journalists to uphold ethical reporting standards and comply with the country’s Press Law and other applicable legislation as the nation prepares for its first general elections.
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