US emphasises the protection of press freedom in South Sudan
The United States government has recommitted to protecting and promoting the country’s freedom of the press and called on the government to grant free access to information and not interfere with journalists’ work.
In a statement seen by The City Review ahead of World Press Freedom Day commemoration, the Chargé d’Affaires David Renz, from the U.S. Embassy, said they join South Sudan and free nations around the world to commemorate World Press Freedom Day and recommit to protecting and promoting freedom of the press.
The United Nations General Assembly in 1993 declared May 3 as World Press Freedom Day. It is always observed to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press.
Also, it reminds governments around the world of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom and is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics.
“The importance of media freedom cannot be overemphasised. It is the lifeblood that keeps democracies operating vibrantly. The government should play its part by guaranteeing free access to information and not interfering with journalists’ reporting. “Equally, journalists should apply the highest code of conduct, ethics, and professionalism in their investigating and reporting,” he stressed.
This year’s World Press Freedom Day theme is “Journalism under Digital Siege.” The theme underscores the increasing role of technology, which can be used not only to disseminate information more quickly and farther than ever before but also for surveillance to prevent the spread of disinformation and misinformation.
Significance of day
Ambassador Renz said World Press Freedom Day offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the importance of freedom of the press in South Sudan.
“We celebrate the courage of journalists and remember those who have been harassed, intimidated, detained, kidnapped, tortured, or killed for simply doing their jobs.”
He further said that at a time when the truth is increasingly under attack, the need for accurate, fact-based reporting, open public conversation, and accountability has never been greater. Journalists uncover the truth, shine a spotlight on abuses of power, and promote transparency from those in authority.
“The ability of journalists to gather and research facts and report them is vital for facilitating the free flow of information and ideas that enable individuals to hold their governments accountable. “Journalists are indispensable to the functioning of democracy, here in South Sudan and worldwide,” he said.
Renz stated that South Sudan is at the crossroads of a critical transition in the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement.
“There is much that needs to be done in the remaining months of the transition period to pave the way for the elections the parties committed to in the revitalised peace agreement,” he added.
Freedom of the press is guaranteed by Article 24 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan 2011.
The diplomat hinted that allowing the press to operate and file content truthfully, accurately, and transparently is central to achieving a fair, free, credible, and democratic election, as called for by President Kiir and is what the South Sudanese people deserve.
According to Reporters Without Borders, South Sudan ranked 139 out of 180 countries on the press freedom index in 2021, dropping one place from its ranking in 2020, while the United States is ranked 44 on the same list.
“At this critical point in South Sudan’s history, I call upon the Media Authority to redouble its efforts to ensure journalists can perform their responsibilities in a safe, protected environment, “Renz said.
