Managing Director of Media Authority, Mr. Elijah Alier Kuai. |File Photo|.
Managing Director of South Sudan’s Media Authority Mr. Elijah Alier Kuai issued a statement warning the public against believing in the propaganda spread through social media by individuals allegedly for political gains.
In a statement to the media on Tuesday, 17 December, Alier said he observed with great concern a troubling trend in the misuse of social media platforms to spread misinformation and disinformation, creating unnecessary panic and fear among the public.
He advised the public to think critically before sharing any content on social media.
“Every time we pick up our phones to share a message on social media, we make a choice. That choice can either strengthen or weaken the social fabric of our society. Social media, while a powerful tool for connection and expression, has become a double-edged sword, transforming from a simple communication medium into a potential vehicle for hate speech, propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation in South Sudan,” Alier said.
He added that the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms has caused waves of unnecessary panic and fear among our people, saying it was a collective responsibility for all citizens to mitigate the spread of negative statements often shared on social media.
Alier asserted that the right to freedom of expression, as enshrined in Article 24 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan, guarantees every citizen the freedom of expression, reception, and dissemination of information.
“With this freedom, however, comes an equally important responsibility,” he warned.
He appealed to political and religious leaders to constructively share their opinions to consolidate unity and peaceful coexistence in the country.
“Your words carry immense weight. When you speak, people listen. We urge you to use this influence wisely and responsibly, to unite rather than divide, to heal rather than harm. The power of your position demands the wisdom to distinguish between constructive criticism and inflammatory rhetoric,” Alier said.
He also cautioned the media against publishing unverified information that could cause panic and social disorder in the country.
“You are the guardians of truth in our society. Your crucial role in verifying information and maintaining journalistic integrity cannot be overstated. In an era where false information can spread at the click of a button, your commitment to fact-checking and responsible reporting serves as our first line of defense against misinformation,” he said.
The Media Authority urged all citizens to rely on legally recognized media houses in South Sudan for credible information.
