Judiciary to Open Media Desk for Journalists in Juba

(JUBA) – The Judiciary of South Sudan is preparing to set up a new Judicial Media Office to improve the flow of information between the courts and journalists. The initiative aims to make court news and legal updates more accessible to the public through the media.

Justice Abraham Majur Laat, a member of the Greater Equatoria Court of Appeal, said the new office will help ensure that journalists receive accurate and timely information about court cases and judicial matters.

He made the announcement during the opening of a refresher training workshop on courtroom reporting for journalists held in Juba on Tuesday.

The workshop drew media professionals from different parts of South Sudan and focused on improving how journalists report legal proceedings and court activities. Justice Laat said the initiative is part of a wider effort by Chief Justice Dr Benjamin Baak to build stronger cooperation between the judiciary and the media.

“The Chief Justice is committed to establishing a Judicial Media office where any information needed by journalists, whether about specific cases or general judiciary matters, will be available,” Justice Laat said.

Once operational, the office will act as a single point of contact for journalists seeking updates on court decisions, ongoing trials, and official statements. It will also serve as a public information centre to ensure accurate and consistent communication from the judiciary.

Observers say the move could improve transparency and reduce the spread of misinformation about judicial proceedings, a problem that has affected public trust in the justice system. It is expected to help the public understand legal processes better and give the media a clearer channel for accessing verified information.

Although the Judiciary has not yet announced the official start date for the new office, Justice Laat confirmed that the process is already underway. Many journalists have welcomed the idea, saying it could strengthen professional reporting standards and improve the accuracy of courtroom coverage in South Sudan.

Judicial Media Office Initiative