In a statement issued on Friday, AMDISS said the one-month period is insufficient for media houses to mobilize the resources and complete the administrative requirements needed to comply with the directive.

AMDISS said, “A one-month period is insufficient for media houses to mobilize the necessary resources and fulfill the administrative requirements to comply with this directive.”

The organization said many media organizations are operating under significant funding and resource constraints.

It warned that “imposing such a short timeframe risks the closure of vital information channels and stifling the growth of a free and vibrant press.”

AMDISS is calling for “an immediate, open dialogue between the Media Authority and representatives of media houses.”

The organization said the consultation would provide an opportunity to discuss “the obstacles that have prevented media houses from renewing their licenses on time” and identify sustainable solutions.

AMDISS also called for a collaborative approach, saying “a collaborative approach, rather than an ultimatum, is the most effective way to uphold professional standards while fostering a sustainable media environment in South Sudan.”

The call comes after the Media Authority issued a notice on August 14 giving radio stations, newspapers, television channels, online media outlets and other registered media entities one month to renew expired operational licences.