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February 27, 2025 – Sudan –
A disturbing series of attacks targeted journalists in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, South Sudan, raising serious concerns about press freedom and journalist safety. The South Sudan Union of Journalists (UJOSS) reported that four journalists faced threats, including arson and intimidation, following the political upheaval marked by the removal of Governor Alfred Futuyo on February 10.
Among the victims was Francis John Abui, a former Anisa FM presenter, whose house was burned down; his whereabouts remain unknown. Similarly, Radio Anisa journalist Alex Yaba’s home was set ablaze on February 22, forcing him into hiding. Yaba recounted a prior incident on February 14, where armed men threatened his younger siblings, warning them against reporting the encounter. Additionally, Jackson Sukoyo of Yambio FM was confronted by individuals in National Security Service uniforms, who seized his phone and left him fearing for his safety.
UJOSS condemned these actions, emphasizing that such attacks undermine press freedom and violate human rights. They called for immediate investigations and accountability for those responsible. The organization stressed the importance of safeguarding journalists to ensure the public’s right to information and the upholding of democratic values.
These incidents occurred amid a broader context of unrest in Yambio, where looting and arson attacks have been reported, further exacerbating the challenges faced by journalists and residents alike. The situation highlights the precarious environment for media professionals in South Sudan, where political instability and targeted violence pose significant threats to their work and safety.
South Sudan’s ranking of 136th out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders underscores the urgent need for measures to protect journalists and uphold press freedom in the country.
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