Three journalists from the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) have been released after being suspected for circulating unpleasant video of the head of state in a compromised position in December last year.
Oyet Patrick Charles, President of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) welcomed the release of Joval Tombe , Joseph Oliver and Cherbek Ruben.
“We call for a speedy conclusion to the investigation of the staff of SSBC that are still in custody of the National Security Service,” Oyet said in a statement issued in Juba on Saturday.
It disclosed that those still in custody of the security are Victor Lado, Mustafa Osman, Jacob Benjamin and Garang John.
Joval Tombe, Joseph Oliver, Mustafa Osman, Cherbek Ruben, and Jacob Benjamin were arrested on Januaru 3rd by National Security Service at the SSBC premises.
While, Victor Lado the SSBC senior editor was picked up on January 4th from Yambio town of Western Equatoria State.
Their detention is connected to the video shot during the opening of the 63 km tarmacked stretch of Juba-Tewrekeka road.
Oyet said if there is a case against the suspects they should be tried through a transparent legal process.
“At this juncture, we call for presumption of innocence of those under investigation, fairness, transparency and the rule of law,” he said.
Oyet said his institution will continue to engage relevant authorities including the National Security Services to ensure journalists operate in a conducive environment in the country.
“UJOSS will continue to work with other stakeholders to ensure a good environment for all journalists to foster mutual understanding for the development of South Sudan,” he said.
