South Sudan’s Media Association re-elects its former leaders

By John Agok

The Association for Media Development in South Sudan or AMDISS has on June 4 unanimously nominated its former seven executive members instead of voting.

Mary Ajith, the former Chair maintained her position, Josephine Achiro became a new Secretary General among other five executive members for the second term of roughly two years.

Sapana Abui, the Director at Media Authority who was an observer noted that the process was free and fair.

He said it was awesome that the members nominated their leaders rather through voting.

“I am delighted with process, it is credible and this displays transparent and confidentiality among the members of Annual General Assembly 2021,” he said.

Mr. Abui commended the Association for reflecting gender representation in the institution.

“I have seen gender equality in your elections. Women are now well represented,” he added.

Atel Ongee Paitia, the legal Consultant described the election process as “free and transparent”.

“I applauded AMDISS for showing respect and confident among their members and with power vested upon me, I declare this election process as free and fair,” he underscored.

Annual General Assembly meeting (AGM) will continue to deliberate on loopholes in constitutional amendment by the new cabinet prior to the next election.

Mr. Koang Pal Chang, Eye Radio’s Station Manager reportedly declined the position of Deputy Chairperson and opted to be a member of the Board due to alleged power monopoly within the Association.

There have been contentious issues prior to election exercise, but law is silent in the constitution of AMDISS.

It has failed to spell out clearly criteria for joining AMDISS and limits to shun monopoly on leadership.