Roundtable on Media and Rights
Information Minister Michael Makuei gathered officers of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and leading reporters in Juba to discuss simmering frictions. The closed-door roundtable, organised by the ICT and Postal Services ministry, aimed to reset relations after several high-profile flashpoints.
Legal Framework Challenges
Makuei praised what he called “the best media laws in the region” yet acknowledged a persistent gap between statute and street practice. He reminded soldiers that their conduct remains governed by military codes, while warning editors that enforcement powers lie firmly with regular forces.
Navigating Confidentiality
The minister drew a sharp line around sensitive material. Journalists, he argued, should not seek military pacts or battle plans, because such documents do not serve the immediate public interest and their premature release could undermine operational security.
Cultivating Mutual Trust
Makuei urged officers to share accurate briefings with field commanders and, where possible, with accredited reporters. He equally asked newsrooms to approach barracks without suspicion, stating that a mistrustful lens too often turns routine checks into confrontations.
Shared National Priority
The discussion concluded with a reminder that security and press freedom are not rival objectives but complementary pillars of state-building. “Both uniforms and notebooks must serve the nation first,” Makuei said, framing collaboration as essential to restoring public confidence after years of conflict.