Lakes State information minister termed the recent arrest of a female journalist in Rumbek as a case of misunderstanding and misinterpretation by some junior police officers who were listening to a live show hosted by the presenter.
Ayak Dhieu Apar was arrested and detained for a couple of days in mid May for hosting a live show about respect to the Police. She was accused of having allegedly defamed and criticized the performance of the Police in Rumbek.Minister Charles Badiri Mayan told Good News Radio that there was nothing against the police in the programme aired by the state radio.
He said both the radio station and the police belong to the Government and t it was a mistake on the part of the police to arrest the presenter.
The minister added that the issue was already resolved.
Mr Badiri advised journalists in South Sudan against using the avenues of communication at their disposal to disseminate negative news.
He urged journalists to produce information that markets the country in a positive light at the international arena.
Mr Badiri disclosed that he has scheduled a meeting with media practitioners in Lakes State to discuss the parameters within which they are expected to operate.
He added that he will be organizing regular meetings with journalists to talk about the challenges they experience.
Mr Badiri said that he has been in contact with telecommunication service providers to ensure that all the counties in the Lakes State are covered with mobile phone networks.