Deputy Minister of Information, Dr. Jacob Korok speaking during the graduation of nearly 30 students at Media Development Institute November 16, 2022 - COURTESTY

The Deputy Minister of Information has cautioned the public against misuse of freedom of expression and disinformation in the country.

Dr. Jacob Korok made the remarks in Juba on Wednesday November 16, 2022, during the graduation of nearly 30 students at Media Development Institute.

The senior government official also urged the public to promote information that seeks peace and unity rather than preaching violence in South Sudan.

He said freedom of expression and that of the press are significant in peace building, adding that the role of the media is vital in a democratic society.

“We have enshrined the freedom of expression and the media in our transitional constitution 2011 as amended. What we want to ensure is that such freedom comes with responsibilities so that it is not misused,” said Hon. Korok.

“Freedom of expression can be misused when people handling information may either not be aware of some limits nor they have not been trained to handle information or they could have their own intentions to mislead the public,

“Go out there and not report fake news, not attracting violence. But well verified information that can help the public to take appropriate action.”