The Chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Journalists has urged veteran Journalist Alfred Taban to use his new career to fight for press freedom.
Alfred Taban announced on Tuesday he would quit journalism after his appointment by the SPLM-IO leadership on Monday.
He now represents Kajo-Keji in Yei River State, a political career he says is very important and would enable him address issues affecting his area.
Reacting to his decision, UJOSS Chairman Oliver Modi says Mr. Taban should also tackle challenges facing press freedom in the country.
“We need our issues to be addressed in the parliament so that all these misunderstandings between journalists and individuals and institutions to come to an end,” Mr Modi told Eye Radio Thursday.
The transitional constitution guarantees freedom of expression and press freedom, but many journalists and media houses have faced arrest and intimidation by the security.
According to human rights groups, more than five journalists have been killed in the country.
“Since he has chosen to go into politics, I wish him to do the best for journalists to work in a free and fair environment where they can exercise their rights in a democratic system of governance,” he added.