Balancing Freedoms: Media Authority Urges Responsibility in Journalism
By Theophilous Ochang
Background: Understanding Freedom of the Press
Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democratic societies. It enables the media to report freely, hold authorities accountable, and inform the public. Globally recognized under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, press freedom ensures the right to seek, receive, and impart information without interference. However, this freedom is not limitless. Most legal systems place certain restrictions to protect national security, public order, or the rights and reputations of others. In South Sudan, press freedom is protected under the Constitution, but journalists are also expected to observe professional ethics and legal boundaries.
Media Authority: Freedom of Expression Is Not Absolute
The Media Authority has reiterated its commitment to upholding journalists’ constitutional right to freedom of expression, while cautioning that this right comes with limitations and responsibilities.
On Tuesday, Sapana Abuyi, Director General of the Media Authority, reminded journalists in Torit that freedom of expression is protected under the law, but it is not without boundaries.
“Your freedom of expression is protected under the constitution, but that freedom is not absolute. It comes with responsibilities and limitations,” he stated.
Abuyi was speaking during a one-day training on conflict-sensitive reporting organized by the Media Authority in collaboration with Journalists for Human Rights.
Know Your Boundaries, Abuyi Tells Journalists
He urged journalists to remain aware of the limits of their rights, emphasizing the need to respect the rights of others in the exercise of their profession.
“You have to know your boundaries. Where your rights end is where the rights of others begin. There is nothing absolute in this world,” he said.
Truth and Accuracy Must Prevail
Mary Ajith, a representative from Journalists for Human Rights, emphasized the importance of journalistic integrity. She encouraged journalists to uphold the core principles of truth and accuracy in all their reporting.
“I urge you to always apply the guiding principles of journalism in your daily work—truth and accuracy,” she said.
Ajith also highlighted the responsibility of all media outlets, including government-owned institutions, to remain independent and humane in their reporting.
“Even state-owned media must maintain their independence and ensure their work does no harm to the communities. What we publish or broadcast may be heard, but we must always be mindful of the impact our work and images have on the lives of our people,” she added.
Building Capacity for Responsible Journalism
The training session in Torit brought together more than 30 journalists from across the state. It focused on equipping them with the tools to report responsibly, particularly in contexts of conflict and post-conflict recovery.
