Suspension of Lakes State Media
The Lakes State government has ordered Lakes State Media off air, citing interviews with defectors as a threat to public order.
In a letter signed by Acting Information Minister William Koji Kirjok, officials asked the outlet to change its name, claiming it wrongly implies official status.
Contested Legal Authority
Media lawyers note that only the national Media Authority may revoke a license, arguing the state decree could exceed constitutional limits (Media Authority Act 2013).
“A state ministry acting alone risks breaching jurisdiction,” a Juba-based legal scholar said, requesting anonymity to speak freely.
Opposition Interview at the Center
The disputed program was to feature Nhial Deng Nhial of the South Sudan Salvation Movement discussing transition and reconciliation.
Sources inside the station insist the aim was balanced dialogue, yet officials interpreted the booking as “endorsing dissent” and “promoting rebel narratives.”
Civil Society and Election Climate
Civic groups, including CEPO, warn the ban undermines calls by President Salva Kiir for inclusive dialogue ahead of planned elections.
“You cannot preach forgiveness while silencing alternative voices,” a Rumbek journalist observed.
Freedom of Expression Safeguards
The Transitional Constitution’s Article 24 and the Media Authority Act protect pluralistic media, limiting restrictions to measures that are necessary and proportionate.
Analysts say the shutdown, if not reviewed, could test those safeguards and shape future relations between provincial governments and independent outlets.
Next Steps for the Outlet
As of Thursday, Lakes State Media has paused all platforms while weighing legal action and a possible rebranding.
Observers expect a rapid precedent-setting decision: either a court will affirm local authority, or the national regulator will reclaim sole oversight.