 has called for stronger collaboration among media institutions, government agencies and human rights defenders to promote credible, peaceful and inclusive elections in South Sudan.){kind=link}
By Ginaba Lino
The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) has called for stronger collaboration among media institutions, government agencies and human rights defenders to promote credible, peaceful and inclusive elections in South Sudan.
The call was made during the third UJOSS Breakfast Meeting with Media Stakeholders, held under the theme, “Promoting Credible, Peaceful and Inclusive Elections in South Sudan: The Role of Institutions, Human Rights Defenders and Media.”
Speaking at the meeting, UJOSS President Patrick Oyet said journalists have a critical responsibility to report throughout all stages of the electoral process, from voter registration and candidates’ nominations to campaigns, voting, counting and the announcement of results.
Oyet urged journalists to move beyond simply reporting candidates’ campaign promises and investigate more into whether those seeking public office can deliver on their commitments to citizens.
He also called for closer engagement between the media, the National Election Commission and the media regulatory authorities to ensure journalists understand their responsibilities and are adequately prepared for election coverage.
Oyet further expressed concern about the growing confusion over who qualifies as a journalist, saying inclusion of people operating social media pages in media activities could affect professional journalism and the quality of information provided to the public.
Meanwhile, Jacob Atem, Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) Media Rights Coordinator, said the media plays a central role in elections because citizens depend on journalists for information, civic education and voter awareness.
Atem emphasized that media organizations should be given adequate opportunities to prepare for election coverage and encouraged stronger cooperation between journalists, government institutions and security agencies.
He also urged media stakeholders to establish effective monitoring mechanisms to identify hate speech, intimidation and other irregularities that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The Media Authority Data Managing Director, Gabriel Mawien Bier, said the electoral period presents a critical test of South Sudan’s institutions, media practitioners, and the country’s commitment to peace.
Mawien stated that elections should be viewed as a process rather than simply an event, stressing that credible, peaceful and inclusive elections cannot be achieved without a free and responsible media.
He added that the Media Authority is working with security organs and the National Elections Commission to facilitate the accreditation of journalists and media houses ahead of the elections. It also reminded journalists and media organizations to register to obtain the necessary accreditation and licenses.
The Authority further pledged to support journalists’ access to polling stations and their ability to report electoral results without intimidation, while calling for any harassment of journalists to be reported immediately.
The representative also called for inclusive coverage that gives space to women, youth, persons with disabilities and communities across South Sudan, while ensuring political parties and opponents receive balanced and equal opportunities to present their views.
The Media Authority said it sees itself not only as a regulator, but also as a protector of journalists, urging media practitioners to engage the institution whenever they face challenges.
The third UJOSS breakfast meeting brought media stakeholders together to reflect on practical ways to strengthen professional, responsible, and inclusive election reporting as South Sudan prepares for its electoral process.