Foreign Ministry Weekly Briefings Plan
South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it will meet the press every Thursday from 4 September as part of a new transparency drive.
Officials say the regular slot will offer verified updates on diplomatic engagements and quickly correct what they call “misinformation” before it gains traction online or on community radios.
Gaza Resettlement Rumors Addressed
The ministry once again labeled reports of talks to host Palestinians displaced from Gaza as “false and unfounded,” stressing that no formal or informal dialogue with Israel or other partners has occurred on the matter.
Analysts note that the second denial within a fortnight signals concern that the narrative might harm Juba’s international reputation at a delicate moment of state-building.
Civil Society Voices Skepticism
Some activists doubt the pledge. Ter Manyang, a governance advocate, argues that previous denials—such as on foreign troops—were later contradicted, eroding public trust in official statements.
He urges publication of all bilateral memoranda, including the 13 August MoU with Israel, so citizens can weigh potential impacts on sovereignty and regional alignments.
Balancing Openness and Diplomacy
Government advisers insist that certain discussions must remain confidential while still honoring the public’s right to information.
“We must communicate enough to combat rumors yet protect sensitive negotiations,” one senior diplomat told this magazine, hinting at forthcoming “brief, factual and timely” updates.
Regional Context of Transparency
Across East Africa, ministries are experimenting with structured media outreach to counter social-media rumor mills. Observers say Juba’s initiative follows similar moves in Nairobi and Kampala.
Whether weekly briefings will narrow the trust gap depends on consistency and the willingness to release documents, not just talking points, analysts contend.