National Security Service Spokesperson, David John Kumuri (L) takes oath as Media Authority Board Member on Friday. [Photo: Presidential Press Unit]

JUBA – President Salva Kiir on Friday presided over the swearing-in of the new Board of Directors of the South Sudan Media Authority (SSMA), including National Security Service spokesperson David John Kumuri, as he urged the country’s media and security institutions to foster professionalism and responsible engagement.

Kumuri, who serves as the spokesperson of the National Security Service, is among the new board members appointed to oversee the statutory media regulator established under the Media Authority Act, 2013.

The ceremony, held at the State House in Juba, also saw Kongder Dut Jok sworn in as Chairperson of the Media Authority Board, with Cecilia Joseph Maker taking office as Deputy Chairperson. Ajou Luol Akuei was sworn in as the Managing Director of the Media Authority.

Other members of the board include Nyankuac Ngor Chol, Emmanuel Monychol Akop, Michael James Otor and Koang Pal Chang.

Beyond the Media Authority appointments, President Kiir administered the oath of office to General Ruben Loro Karlo as the new Commissioner General of the South Sudan National Civil Defence Service, while Francis Luigi Adwok was sworn in as a member of the National Elections Commission (NEC).

Addressing the newly appointed officials, Kiir called on them to strengthen the institutions under their leadership by serving with integrity, diligence and dedication.

According to the statement from the Office of the President, Kiir reaffirmed his government’s commitment to media freedom and freedom of expression, while warning that those rights should be exercised responsibly.

The president urged journalists and media practitioners to uphold professional standards by ensuring accuracy and ethical reporting, saying responsible journalism plays an important role in promoting national unity and democratic development.

Kiir also appealed to users of digital platforms to avoid disseminating hate speech, abusive language, misinformation and other content capable of inciting violence or deepening divisions.

He further encouraged security institutions to maintain constructive engagement with the media, describing the press as a key partner in informing, educating and entertaining the public.

Congratulating the newly sworn-in officials, Kiir expressed confidence that they would strengthen their respective institutions and contribute to South Sudan’s democratic and institutional development.

The South Sudan Media Authority is an “independent” statutory body established under the Media Authority Act, 2013. It is mandated to regulate, license and promote the development of an independent, pluralistic and professional media sector across the country.