The South Sudan Media Authority has issued a warning to political candidates, their supporters, journalists and social media users against spreading hate speech, misinformation, disinformation and incitement to violence. The regulator cautioned that inflammatory election-related communication could undermine public peace, national cohesion and the credibility of the December 2026 general elections. This warning comes as the country prepares for the upcoming elections.
The Authority's Managing Director, Hon. Ajou Luol Akuei, addressed a press conference on Monday, highlighting the emerging signs of harmful and divisive communication during ongoing electoral activities. Akuei expressed concerns about the potential consequences of such communication for public peace, national cohesion and the democratic process. He emphasized that peaceful elections were a shared responsibility and urged political candidates and their supporters to promote constructive debate and democratic participation.
Akuei urged political candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns, respect opposing views and refrain from inflammatory statements or communications that could threaten public peace and stability. He also called on journalists and media houses to uphold professional and ethical journalism by ensuring accuracy, impartiality and verification of information before publication. This, he said, would help prevent the spread of hate speech and unverified claims.
The Managing Director further urged social media users and digital content creators to exercise responsibility when creating and sharing information during the electoral period. He said the Media Authority would continue monitoring media content and collaborating with relevant institutions to address violations within its regulatory mandate. Akuei added that individuals and media entities found engaging in unlawful conduct could face applicable legal or regulatory consequences.
Akuei announced that the Authority intends to launch a public awareness campaign to combat hate speech, misinformation and disinformation during the electoral period. The campaign, subject to the availability of necessary resources and support, aims to promote responsible communication throughout the electoral cycle. He called on all stakeholders to support peaceful, credible and inclusive elections.
The Media Authority's warning is a proactive measure to prevent the escalation of violence and promote a peaceful electoral process. Akuei emphasized that no political ambition or personal interest should come at the expense of the lives, safety and unity of the South Sudanese people. He urged citizens to reject divisive messages and use communication platforms responsibly.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a responsible, professional and peaceful media environment for the benefit of all South Sudanese. Key to this effort is collaboration with relevant institutions to address media-related violations and promote constructive debate during the electoral period. The regulator's efforts aim to ensure that the 2026 elections are peaceful, credible and inclusive.
Key points
- The South Sudan Media Authority warns against hate speech, misinformation and incitement to violence ahead of the 2026 general elections.
- The regulator urges political candidates, supporters, journalists and social media users to promote constructive debate and democratic participation.
- A public awareness campaign will be launched to combat hate speech, misinformation and disinformation during the electoral period.
