Koang Pal Chang, the Chairperson of Association for Media Development in South Sudan and Eye Radio Station Manager speaking during a Media Stakeholders Forum in Juba Nov. 21, 2023 - Credit: Juma Peter/AMDISS

The Chairperson of the Association of Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) says it’s high time for the government to provide a conducive environment for the media and civic space as the country heads towards elections.

Speaking at a Media Stakeholders Forum in Juba on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, Koang Pal Chang pointed out that finding a conducive environment is still a challenge to independent media and journalists.

Koang who is also Eye Radio station manager says civic space is critical for the success of the 2024 elections.

According to him, a free civil space means freedom of expression and the media.

“As we are preparing for upcoming general elections, it is good for media stakeholders to discuss these two issues, lack of conducive environment for media and journalists and shrinking civic space in the country,” said Koang.

“We all know civic space is about freedom of expression and media, and a lack of conducive environment for both independent media and journalists has been a challenge…

“It is high time for the government to provide that environment for the media and Journalists and it is the responsibility of the government to provide civic space.”

The ongoing two-day Media Stakeholders Forum” organized by the Association of Media Development in South Sudan featured keynote speakers from the national government, civil society, media experts and academia.

It is being held under the theme; The Role of Army, Police and Judiciary in ensuring the Safety and Protection of Journalists.