Information Minister Warns Against Divisive Reporting

(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Michael Makuei Lueth, has called on the media to play a constructive role in promoting peace and national development instead of fuelling division.

The minister made the remarks on Tuesday while launching the Media Stakeholders Forum in Juba, a two day event organised to promote freedom of expression and safeguard civic space in the country. The forum brought together journalists, representatives of organised forces and members of civil society organisations.

Addressing participants, Makuei said the media has a vital role in uniting communities and shaping the country’s future. He urged journalists and media houses to act as partners in peacebuilding rather than being sources of conflict or misunderstanding.

The minister also announced that his ministry had recently secured projects through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). He explained that these initiatives are designed to expand civic space, support freedom of expression and strengthen both public and private sector infrastructure across South Sudan.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Association for Media Development in South Sudan, Josephine Achiro, appealed to members of the organised forces to work closely with journalists.

She noted that the use of intimidation or force against the media undermines reporting and discourages stories that could positively contribute to peace and nation building.

Media Stakeholders Forum Highlights