@unmiss
Juba, PR, MP 07 May 2019
Journalists and civil society groups have gathered in Juba last week to celebrate the World Press Freedom Day.
Edmond Yakani, the Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) told the gathering saying, “In order for the journalists to do their work effectively, they need to exercise freedom of expression, access to information and be allowed to do their civic activities.
“While CEPO is doing its part, the primary responsibility for keeping the public informed about the peace process lies with the parties at the table of negotiations,” Yakani remarked.
Ruot George, an activist and freelance journalist said he is also working hard to educate civilians at the UN protection camps about the peace process and its challenges. He urged the authorities concerned to support calls for freedom of expression in the country.
Speaking at the occasion also was Dr James Okuk of the University of Juba, Institute of the Strategic Studies. Okuk emphasized on the importance of that day. He said, in order for the public to enjoy the freedom of speech, there should be constitutional guarantees that would allow for such rights in a democratic process.
The gathering which attracted journalists from various media houses, including civil society organizations and women groups was organized in conjunction with JEMEC, UNMISS and other bodies concerned with the peace process in South Sudan.
MP
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