Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The Project Manager for Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) stressed that the work of the security sector and the media is complementary, not competitive, in ensuring that citizens receive accurate information while promoting human rights.
Mary Ajith made the remarks during a Roundtable Discussion on Media Relations and Human Rights held on Thursday, October 16, which brought together SSPDF officers and journalists to tackle deep-seated mistrust, define professional standards, and chart a clear course for collaboration in the service of national peace.
The open dialogue was organized by Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) in partnership with the Media Authority and members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Ajith said Both the media and the security sector play vital roles in peace-building, national stability, and the democratic development of our country.
The Project Manager of (JHR) says they also share a responsibility to make citizens feel secure through protection by security personnel and accurate reporting by journalists.
“As the media and also the security sector, not only do we have a role to play in peace-building, the stability of our beloved country and the democratic development of this country, but we also have a role to make the citizens of this country comfortable through your role of protection and through the role of the journalists in providing accurate information,”she said.
Ajith highlighted the challenges posed by the digital era, where misinformation spreads quickly and social media can be weaponised.
She stressed that journalists play a crucial role in exposing falsehoods and human rights violations, and no individual spreading misinformation should be shielded simply because of their position.
“This can be achieved by working with journalists who play a crucial role in exposing the truth and in that regard, if you find somebody spreading falsehood despite their position in any sector, then you will not protect them because you know that journalists are doing their role by exposing the truth and highlighting human rights violations or injustices in our communities,” she said.
She says the work of the security with the media complements each other and is not in competition.
Mary added that ensuring citizens receive accurate information requires collaboration focused on human rights, peace-building, and national unity.
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