CPJ urges unconditional release of journalist in South Sudan

August 8, 2024 (NAIROBI) –The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged authorities in South Sudan to immediately and unconditionally release Singaita FM journalist Sisto Germano Ohide, who is ill and undergoing malaria treatment.

Ohide was arrested over a story on the breaking of the Catholic Church statue.

“Sisto Germano Ohide’s arrest is yet another stain on South Sudan’s already poor press freedom record, and it is deeply worrying that he remains in custody while severely ill,” said CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo, in Nairobi.

She added “Authorities should release Ohide and drop all charges against him.”

On August 6, police in Kapoeta town in Eastern Equatoria State took Ohide into custody after producing a warrant accusing him of defamation, but released him shortly afterward so that he could receive malaria treatment, reports indicate.

David Mayen, the station manager said when Ohide appeared at the station as directed on August 7, he was arrested and later transferred to Torit Central Police Station, about 75 miles away, where he remains detained without charge.

The arrest of the journalist in reportedly linked to disputes in the Catholic diocese.

The President of the Union of Journalist in South Sudan (UJOSS), Patrick Charles Oyet said the arrest of the journalist did not follow proper procedures and called for his immediate release.

In South Sudan, authorities often arbitrary arrest, harass and detain journalists.

Reporters Without Borders’ annual World Press Freedom Index 2024 places South Sudan at 136 out of 180 nations.

(ST)