Two local journalists in Lakes states demoted
November 9, 2015 (RUMBEK) – Authorities in South Sudan’s Lakes state have demoted town local journalists in what the state government described as a case of indiscipline.
The director general in the state information ministry, Gabriel Gakmar Kuc said the move followed the outcome of a disciplinary committee set up last month to investigate an incident involving a physical fight in office by the two employees in September.
The duo, Mabor Riak Magok and John Chiec Dut worked for Radio FM-98 in Rumbek.
“The decision is to downgrade Mabor Riak Magok from grade 10 to12 and John Chiec to be totally reassigned to another ministry without access to the radio station,” said Kuc.
He added, “The demotion of Mabor Riak is accompanied with a transfer from the information ministry to another ministry without journalistic related assignment. John Chiec Dut will serve for three years in the ministry of information without promotion.”
The media in Lakes state operates in hash conditions and press freedom is restricted. Many local reporters have complained of intimidation or dismissal without clear charges.
(ST)