Media Authority to summon individuals over hate speech ahead of elections

The Media Authority says it will summon individuals suspected of spreading hate speech, misinformation and disinformation during ongoing electoral activities ahead of the December 2026 general elections.

Ajou Luol Akuei, Director General of the Media Authority, said the authority had recorded 10 cases across five states, involving alleged violations of the Media Authority Act 2013 and the 2021 Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in South Sudan.

According to Akuei, the reported cases include two in Jonglei, two in Upper Nile, three in Unity, two in Warrap and one in Central Equatoria State.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Monday, Akuei said the authority was collecting information to identify those involved and establish whether they were affiliated with government institutions or the private sector.

He said the authority was concerned that inflammatory messages could threaten public peace, national unity and the credibility of the electoral process.

“We are evaluating and identifying those who are violating the Constitution, the Media Authority Act and the 2021 Code of Conduct for practising journalism in South Sudan,” Akuei said.

He urged political candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns, respect opposing views and avoid statements that promote hatred, division, intimidation or violence.

The authority also called on journalists and media houses to uphold professional standards by ensuring accuracy, impartiality and proper verification of information before publication. Social media users and digital content creators were similarly urged to act responsibly when producing and sharing information.

Akuei said individuals identified during the verification process would be summoned and could face legal action.

“We are going to summon them. First, we are verifying who these people are, where they come from and which institutions they work for. Anyone we identify will be brought to book,” he said.

He added that the authority was also examining how to address hate speech and misinformation circulated through unregistered social media platforms, saying existing legislation provided a legal basis for action.

Akuei cited the Media Authority Act, the Cybersecurity Act and the Penal Code Act 2008 as among the laws that could be applied in addressing unlawful conduct.

The Media Authority says it will continue monitoring media content and work with relevant institutions to address violations. It also plans to launch a public awareness campaign to combat hate speech, misinformation and disinformation throughout the electoral period.