Elijah Alier Kuai, Managing Director of the Media Authority, addressing the media during a press conference on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. Credit: Koang Pal Chang/Eye Radio

The Media Authority in South Sudan has called on the public to verify information through credible local media before sharing it, warning against the growing misuse of social media to spread misinformation that fuels panic and fear.

In a press conference held in Juba on Tuesday, December 17, Elijah Alier Kuai, Managing Director of the Media Authority, addressed the rising issue of social media misuse and called for urgent action to ensure that these platforms foster unity rather than division.

“Every time we pick up our telephones to share a message on social media, we make a choice. That choice can either strengthen or weaken the social fabric of our society,” said Kuai.

He emphasized that while social media is a powerful tool for connection and expression, it has become a double-edged sword, transforming from a simple communication medium into a potential vehicle for hate speech, propaganda, and the spread of false information.

The media regulatory body stated that the spread of misinformation and disinformation has already caused widespread panic among the people of South Sudan, and the Media Authority is committed to reversing this damaging trend.

Kuai stressed the collective responsibility of all citizens to ensure that social media does not become a platform for division and unrest.

He called for increased accountability in the way information is shared online, urging citizens, leaders, and media outlets to take ownership of the impact their online activities have on national unity.

In his statement, Kuai reminded the public of their right to freedom of expression as guaranteed by Article 24 of the Transitional Constitution.

However, he also pointed out that with this freedom comes a responsibility to exercise it wisely. “To our politicians and religious leaders, your words carry immense weight. When you speak, people listen. We urge you to use this influence wisely and responsibly, to unite rather than divide, to heal rather than harm,” said Kuai.

He called on politicians and religious leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and to use their platforms to foster unity and peace. “The power of your position demands the wisdom to distinguish between constructive criticism and inflammatory rhetoric,” he said, urging them to lead by example.

He stated that the media houses also have a crucial role in ensuring the truth is upheld in the face of rampant misinformation.

Kuai stressed the responsibility of media outlets to verify facts and maintain journalistic integrity, which serves as the first line of defense against the spread of false information.

He praised the role of media organizations in maintaining credibility and called on them to continue their diligent work in fact-checking and verifying stories before publication.

Civil society organizations, which act as watchdogs of democracy, were also urged to be cautious not to amplify politically charged statements that could incite violence. Instead, Kuai advocated for dialogue, peace, and building bridges to strengthen South Sudan’s social fabric.

Kuai also addressed every citizen who uses social media, emphasizing the power they hold as influencers. With the rapid rise of social media usage in South Sudan, every post, comment, and message shared has real-world implications.

He urged the public to always verify the information before sharing it, asking themselves whether it comes from a reliable source and whether they are contributing to the truth or spreading misinformation.

“Our legally recognized media houses are the primary sources of credible information in South Sudan. Before you share that forwarded message or post that story, ask yourself: Is this from a reliable source?” he said.

The Media Authority urged all citizens to rely on trusted media outlets that work tirelessly to verify facts and maintain authenticity. “Your role in maintaining the authenticity of news is paramount,” Kuai stressed.

Furthermore, the Media Authority advised the government to ensure the timely dissemination of accurate, credible information to prevent the spread of misinformation and to protect national unity.

Kuai reaffirmed that the Media Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting freedom of expression but with a strong emphasis on exercising that freedom responsibly.

“We are not here to restrict your voice, but to ensure that it contributes to tranquillity and progress rather than chaos or conflict,” he said.

He concluded by reminding the public that South Sudan’s strength lies in its unity. “Our diversity is our beauty and our ability to live harmoniously is our greatest asset. Let us use social media to showcase the best of our nation, our resilience, our culture, our achievements, and our unwavering spirit.”

Kuai emphasized the importance of each individual’s choice in shaping the future of South Sudan, urging the public to recognize that every click, every post, and every interaction on social media has the potential to either divide or unite.

“Let every click, every cheer, and every force reflect our commitment to building a prosperous South Sudan. Our country’s future depends not just on decisions made in government offices, but on the daily choices made by each of us on our social media platforms. Together, we can transform social media from a potential source of division into a powerful tool for national development and unity. The choice and the responsibility lie with each of us,” he concluded.