![South Sudan's map featuring Jonglei state in red. [Photo via Wikipedia]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Jonglei_in_South_Sudan.svg.png?resize=1024%2C743&ssl=1)
On November 4, the Jonglei State ministry of information and communication issued a directive mandating microphone announcers and local radio stations to seek ministry approval and guidance before broadcasting announcements and conducting radio shows, respectively.
The Ministry justified the directive as a means to address challenges associated with the skills gap among local journalists when conducting radio talk shows.
In a statement seen by Sudans Post yesterday, UJOSS Jonglei State branch expressed deep concern and strong disagreement with the order, citing its violation of press freedoms guaranteed by national and international laws.
“The Union of Journalists in South Sudan in Jonglei State writes to express our deep concern and strong disagreement to the recent order issued by the Ministry of Information, which unjustly restricts local radio stations from seeking approval from the ministry before broadcasting radio talk shows and announcements,” the letter stated.
The body called on the Jonglei State Ministry of Information to immediately rescind the order and uphold the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression.
“We firmly believe in the fundamental principles of press freedom and freedom of expression. These principles are enshrined in both national and international laws and are essential for fostering a vibrant and democratic society,” it emphasized.
The union further criticized the order as unlawful, stating that it not only infringes upon the rights of local radio stations but also violates the rights of citizens to access diverse and independent sources of information.
