President Salva Kiir and Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny pose with the newly sworn-in Media Authority Board after the officials took the oath of office at the State House on Friday. Photo: Office of the President.

President Salva Kiir has called on the new board of directors of the Media Authority to strengthen the institution and promote professionalism in the country’s media sector.

Kiir made the remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the new officials at the State House on Friday.

At the same event, Gen. Ruben Loro Karlo was sworn in as Commissioner General of the South Sudan National Civil Defence Service, while Francis Luigi Adwok took the oath of office as a member of the National Elections Commission.

President Kiir urged the newly appointed officials to improve the performance of their institutions and serve the country with integrity, dedication, and professionalism.

He also pledged his government’s commitment to media freedom and freedom of expression, saying these rights should be exercised responsibly.

The President urged journalists to uphold accuracy, professionalism, and ethical reporting, describing responsible journalism as essential for national unity and democratic development.

He also appealed to social media users to avoid spreading hate speech, misinformation, and content that could fuel violence or division.

President Kiir further encouraged security institutions to maintain constructive engagement with the media, recognising its role in informing, educating, and entertaining the public.

The new Media Authority Board is chaired by Kongder Dut Jok, with Cecilia Joseph Maker serving as deputy chairperson.

Ajou Luol Akuei was sworn in as the managing director, alongside board members Nyankuac Ngor Chol, Emmanuel Monychol Akop, Michael James Otor, David John Kumuri, and Koang Pal Chang.

The South Sudan Media Authority was established under the Media Authority Act, 2013, to regulate, license, and promote an independent, pluralistic, and professional media sector in the country.