Senior South Sudanese journalist Maura Ajak has called on the Media Authority to establish clearer guidelines for community-run social media platforms ahead of the December 2026 general elections. Ajak made the remarks during a talk show marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. She emphasized the need for closer cooperation between the Media Authority and the National Elections Commission to improve public access to civic education and ensure accurate election-related information reaches communities.
Ajak expressed concern over the limited dissemination of civic engagement information, saying professional journalists should take a leading role in explaining the electoral process. She noted that the Media Authority and the National Elections Commission should work together to address this issue. Ajak's comments highlight the challenges South Sudan faces in preparing for its first general elections, which are scheduled for December 2026.
The growing number of community-based social media platforms has raised questions about the role of the Media Authority in guiding their activities during the election period. Ajak argued that professional journalists should help guide community platforms in sharing accurate information about the different stages of the electoral process. This, she believes, will help reduce the risk of false information being circulated.
Ajak emphasized the importance of coordinated public information campaigns to help communities understand the election process. She said that by working together, the Media Authority and the National Elections Commission can ensure that accurate information reaches communities and reduce the risk of misinformation. This, she believes, will make the election experience unique and prevent false records.
South Sudan is preparing for its first general elections amid calls for stronger civic education, responsible reporting, and public access to reliable election information. The country's Media Authority and National Elections Commission face the challenge of ensuring that accurate information reaches communities. Ajak's comments highlight the need for a coordinated approach to address these challenges.
Ajak's call for clearer guidelines for community-run social media platforms is part of a broader effort to promote responsible reporting and civic education in South Sudan. Her comments have sparked a renewed debate about the role of professional journalists and community-run social media platforms in the electoral process. The Media Authority and the National Elections Commission are expected to take Ajak's concerns into consideration as they prepare for the elections.
The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists marked the occasion for Ajak's remarks. The day is observed annually to raise awareness about the importance of protecting journalists and promoting a culture of accountability. Ajak's comments reflect the concerns of many journalists and stakeholders in South Sudan who are working to promote a free and responsible press ahead of the elections.
Key points
- Senior journalist Maura Ajak calls for clearer guidelines for community-run social media platforms to ensure accurate election information.
- Ajak emphasizes the need for closer cooperation between the Media Authority and the National Elections Commission to improve public access to civic education.
- South Sudan is preparing for its first general elections, scheduled for December 2026, amid calls for stronger civic education and responsible reporting.
