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Juba – Al Wadi Newspaper
H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Friday presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Board of Directors of the South Sudan Media Authority, along with several recently appointed government officials, in a formal event held at the Presidential Palace in Juba.
In his address during the ceremony, President Kiir called on members of the Media Authority Board to enhance the efficiency of the institution and improve its performance, contributing to the development of the country’s media sector and the promotion of professionalism, ethical standards, and adherence to journalistic codes of conduct.
The new board is chaired by Kongdaar Dut Jok, with Cecilia Joseph Maker serving as Deputy Chairperson. Ajo Lual Akuei was sworn in as Director General of the Media Authority. Other board members include Nyankwac Ngor Chol, Emmanuel Monishol Akop, Michael James Otur, David John Komouri, and Kuong Fal Chang.
The ceremony also saw the swearing-in of Major General Ruben Loro Karlo as Commissioner General of the National Civil Defence Service, while Francis Luiji Adok took the oath as a member of the National Elections Commission.
President Kiir reaffirmed the government’s commitment to guaranteeing media freedom and freedom of expression, while stressing that these rights must be exercised responsibly. He urged media practitioners to uphold accuracy, objectivity, and the highest professional standards, noting that responsible media is a cornerstone of national unity.
He further called on media users, particularly on digital platforms, to refrain from spreading hate speech, misinformation, or content that could incite violence or division within society. He also encouraged security institutions to strengthen positive cooperation with the media in recognition of its role in public awareness, information dissemination, and community service.
President Kiir expressed confidence in the ability of the new officials to effectively carry out their duties and contribute to institutional development and the advancement of democratic governance in the country.
The South Sudan Media Authority is an independent body established under the Media Authority Act of 2013, mandated to regulate, license, and develop a professional, independent, and pluralistic media sector across the Republic of South Sudan.
