Radio Jonglei temporarily taken off air for airing “provocative” song
By Riak Chol
Bor, South Sudan – Radio Jonglei 95.9 FM, a prominent local broadcaster in Jonglei State, was temporarily taken off air by state authorities on Sunday, June 8, after airing a song reportedly deemed “provocative” in the context of ongoing intercommunal tensions.
In a statement released on Tuesday, June 10, the station’s management acknowledged the incident and explained that the song had “automatically aired on the playlist” without pre-screening. The content was perceived to inflame sensitivities amid a conflict involving the Ayual community of Twic East County and the Hol community of Duk County.
Radio Jonglei’s Chief Executive Officer, Tijwog H. Agwet, issued a formal apology on behalf of the station.
“The management takes full responsibility for the situation and sincerely apologizes to our listeners and the broader community for any distress this may have caused,” said Agwet.
He also addressed rumors circulating on social media, refuting claims that the station had been attacked or that staff members had been arrested.
“No staff member was arrested. On Monday, June 9, the management team responded to a summons by the National Security Office in Bor for questioning. We cooperated fully and returned safely,” he clarified.
While Radio Jonglei recognized the Media Authority’s role in overseeing broadcast content, Agwet voiced concern about the implications of such enforcement during a period of heightened ethnic tensions. He called on Jonglei State authorities to allow the station to resume operations, stressing its importance in fostering informed and peaceful communities.
“We remain committed to working closely with state officials, community leaders, and our audience to ensure that Radio Jonglei continues to be a trusted voice and a unifying force across the state,” he added.
As of Wednesday, June 11, the station remained off air, with no official communication from state authorities on when broadcasting would resume. Attempts to obtain a comment from government officials were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
