On Thursday, the 5th of January, six journalists from South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) were taken into custody by National Security Services (NSS), following a video which allegedly showed President Salva Kiir Mayardit relieving himself on-site at a road commissioning ceremony. The International Federation of Journalists is deeply concerned for their safety and in unison with its affiliate Union of Journalists of South Sudan calls to release them without delay.
Local outlets have reported that a trio of journalists are being detained by the National Security Services for their involvement with disseminating footage to social media platforms in December. It is speculated that they had prior knowledge of said content going viral and are now under investigation accordingly.
UJOSS releases a request to the government
On January 5th, UJOSS released a plea to the government. However the plea was to expeditiously address any possible indications of professional misconduct.
Furthermore, UJOSS is adamant about swiftly concluding any investigations that may be necessary.
The IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger fervently requested the immediate liberation of the journalists.
“This is a clear act of intimidation. However we don’t see any sign of guilt on the part of our colleagues who should be allowed to resume work and exercise their profession freely,” He emphatically declared.
The arrests have come amid a tumultuous period in South Sudan. The country has been plagued by political unrest and conflicts between ethnic groups since it gained independence.
However the video serves as an example of the government’s attempts to control the media and suppress free speech.
Additionally entrenching hostility between parties. The IFJ and UJOSS urge the government to ensure the safety of these journalists. They must be released unconditionally and their right to freedom of expression respected.
