AMDISS Apologises for Remarks on Court Coverage

(JUBA) – The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) has issued an apology and clarification following public concerns over remarks made by its Director on national television regarding media coverage of ongoing court proceedings in Juba.

The statement released on October 30, 2025 came after reactions to comments made during an advocacy meeting held a day earlier at the Ministry of Information, Communication, Technology and Postal Services.

The organisation said the remarks were made in error and were not meant to question the professionalism or integrity of journalists reporting on the court sessions.

According to AMDISS, the televised statement was a “slip of the tongue” and not a reflection of its position or values. The group emphasised that it continues to respect and appreciate the hard work, commitment and resilience of journalists in South Sudan, especially those reporting on sensitive national issues.

AMDISS further noted that during the same advocacy meeting, its representatives had appealed to the government to ensure that journalists receive full access to cover ongoing court proceedings without interference.

The meeting was part of a wider effort to promote press freedom and strengthen cooperation between the media and government institutions.

A symbolic framed message presented to Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth read: “A world without journalism is a world without trust.”

In its clarification, AMDISS also addressed a recent incident involving the circulation of a leaked court audio recording, which raised concerns among journalists and the public. The organisation confirmed that an internal review had been conducted and found that the issue stemmed from individual actions rather than the broader media community.

The group said the matter revealed the importance of continuous ethical training for journalists, particularly in court and investigative reporting. However, AMDISS stressed that the case should not be used to generalise or discredit all journalists covering the courts.

Reaffirming its mission, AMDISS stated that it remains committed to promoting independent, ethical and responsible journalism in South Sudan. The organisation said it would never take a position that undermines the integrity or professionalism of the country’s media sector.

AMDISS concluded by pledging continued engagement with government authorities, civil society and international partners to create an open and supportive environment for free expression in South Sudan.