Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) and South Sudan's Media Authority held the country's first national media symposium. Over 100 government officials from all the states, including the two administrative and the disputed border region of Abyei, attended the event.
The theme of the symposium was "Strengthening the media in South Sudan towards a professional, vibrant and free media for all." It was the first time in the country's history that media professionals and government officials had come together to discuss how to promote open and free information flow in line with the country's media and professional ethics.
South Sudan's Minister of Information and Communication, Michael Makuei, was the guest of honor at the event. He said that the government is ready to open up the media landscape to allow for more effective information flow, but that journalists must respect and obey the country's laws and traditions.
"I implore you all to speak the language of peace," Makuei cautioned. "Please avoid reporting hate speech."
Elijah Alier, the Managing Director of the Media Authority, said that it is illegal for state ministers or government officials to harass, arrest, or molest accredited journalists who are legally doing their jobs.
"It is the Media Authority's responsibility to accredit journalists and regulate their affairs," Alier said. "If you see them in your state with accreditation from us, do not disturb them. Even if they do not have accreditation, please refer them to us. It is not your job to harass them or stop them from doing their job."
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