The directive of the government to end live calls during political programs on two major radio stations is a violation of rights to freedom of expression, activists have said.

At a press conference held on Tuesday, Information Minister Michael Makuei warned Eye Radio and Miraya against broadcasting live call-in programs.

Makuei said the programs were unacceptable for they ‘allow anybody to come and say his rubbish and pass these filthy ideas to the public and you will not be in the position to control it’.

He called on all the radio stations to pre-record programs that discuss critical issues.

However, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, Edmond Yakani, said prohibiting call-in shows denies the citizens their right to expression.

“If you seal their mouths, then you have denied their identity,” Mr Yakani said.

For his part, the Chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Journalists, Oliver Modi, said the statement is intimidating and unlawful:

“This is contrary to the constitution of the Republic of South Sudan and it is contrary to the overall laws of South Sudan.”