South Sudan Journalists join the globe in celebrating World Press Freedom Day on Thursday in Juba under the theme: ‘Keeping power in check: Media, justice and the rule of law’.
Press freedom has slightly improved compared to previous years due to the national dialogue and establishment of media regulatory bodies, Oliver Modi Philip, Chairperson of Union of Journalists of South Sudan believes.
He urges the government to speed up the promotion of the watchdog role of the media.
UNESCO representative Sardar Umar Alam calls on development of the media sector for better dissemination of information to public.
The media should not be there only for passing information, he adds.
Chairperson of Board of Directors Media Authority, Atong Majok Kur, says roles of stakeholders are now very clear where by the regulatory body is now able to perform its duties without interference.
She says the national dialogue is a proof that every person has the right to enjoy freedom of expression.
Justice Atong says according to Reporters without Boarders, South Sudan has dropped ranking from number 145 to 144 on freedom of expression.