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UJOSS seeks dialogue with security over arrest of Journalist

By William Madouk

Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) has expressed deep concern about the disappearance of the former director general of state-owned TV/Radio, SSBC, Adil Faris.

In a statement released yesterday, the President of UJOSS, Oyet Patrick, highlighted that initial reports suggest Faris is currently being held in detention by the National Security Service

“The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) is deeply concerned about the disappearance of freelance journalist Adil Faris on January 23, 2025,” he said.

“Preliminary information suggests that he is in the custody of the National Security Services (NSS) for undisclosed reasons,” he added.

Oyet condemned the detention of journalists without due process or notifying their families.

“We call on the NSS to expedite its investigations, grant Faris access to his family and lawyer, and adhere to the legal procedures outlined in the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan, 2011 (as amended) articles 12,19 and 24 safeguard liberty, fair trial, and freedom of expression,” he noted.

UJOSS urged for instantaneous dialogue between NSS, Union, and Media Authority to underlying concerns.

“UJOSS also urges immediate dialogue between the NSS and the Union to address the underlying concern, with media authority as a mediator, constructive engagement will ensure journalists rights are upheld while addressing security concerns lawfully,” Mr. Oyet asserted.

UJOSS affirmed that they stand ready to engage in dialogue and cooperation to foster a safe and enabling environment for journalists, which is vital for the country’s democratic and peacebuilding processes.

The former director of state-owned SSBC, journalist Adil Faras Mayath (pictured) was last seen on Thursday, January 23, 2025, before being allegedly nabbed by the unknown gunmen.

According to Ms. Amira Alnahawi, a wife to Adil – who is currently in Egypt said her husband disappeared five days ago.

When contacted the police spokesperson, Col. John Kassara said he is not aware of Adil’s disappearance but vowed to take swift action to see whether he was arrested for any crime from various police stations

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