South Sudan journalists’ union demands Warrap rescind expulsion of scribe

By Tapeng Micheal Ohure

The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) has expressed concern over the expulsion of one of its members from Warrap State, saying it breached the constitution and are now demanding the State Governor Aleu Ayieny Aleu to make a U-turn.

Governor Aleu ordered the United Nation’s Radio Miraya journalist Manyang Mayom out of Warrap on November 4 with an ultimatum of 72 hours to leave.

UJOSS President Patrick Oyet Charles described the expulsion as “unfortunate.”

“UJOSS believes expulsion of Manyang clearly undermines articles 24, 27 and 32 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan, 2011, as amended,” he said in a statement.

Article 24 provides for freedom of expression, article 27 allows for freedom of movement and residence and article 32 provides for access to information.

Charles said the Aleu ought to have followed the right procedures if the state had deemed journalist Manyang Mayom was practicing unethical journalism.

“UJOSS calls for revocation of the order of the expulsion” and as well “considers the action of Governor, Hon. Lt. Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu as a major threat to freedom of expression in the country,” he said.

 Charles said any complaints against journalists or media practitioners should be filed with the Media Authority of South Sudan for redress.