Catholic Radio Network or CRN former News Chief Editor on Monday left Juba for Portugal, expressing sadness over growing dictatorship in the country.
Fr Jose Silva Vieira told CRN that he was very sad to leave South Sudan when Information Minister Michael Makuei was battling media houses to suppress their freedom.
He added that Minister Makuei acted in anger due to Sudan Tribune’s report on President Kiir’s health.
Fr Vieira said Minister Makuei’s action was a sign of dictatorship and it was not his duty to vet journalists.
He said journalists should not register with government because it was not government’s task to vet journalists.
The former editor questioned why the minister wanted to vet journalists and not other professionals including lawyers, teachers and doctors.
Fr Vieira said if government wanted positive news, it should do good things.
He lamented that it was unfortunate and sad to see South Sudan turning into totalitarianism after independence.
Fr Vieira added that it was not sensible for South Sudan to commit mistakes of the countries that got independence 50 years ago.
The former editor said he was again sad to leave many good friends in South Sudan and Juba hot weather he enjoyed and the beautiful scene and fresh water of the River Nile.
He added that he was also happy to leave after establishing CRN News Desk in seven years and employing competent staff to promote quality service.
Fr Vieira expressed confidence and happiness in CRN News team including Editor Alfred Soka, Yanta Daniel, Kade Doris and stations’ crew.
CRN former News chief editor, Fr Vieira wished all South Sudanese a blessed South Sudan.