Local newspapers terminate contracts of striking journalists

JUBA – The management of The City Review and Al-Hagiga Newspapers, on Wednesday, terminated the contracts of eight journalists who were suspended last month for striking over pay disparities with foreign colleagues.

The eight journalists were served with termination letters this afternoon amid threats of legal action from the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) if they are not reinstated.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the company said the termination of employment was due to redundancy.

“We write to formally notify that, regrettably, your position as news reporters have been redundant and your employment with the company will be terminated effective September 3, 2024,” reads part of a letter seen by Sudans Post.

It said the decision was made following a comprehensive review of the organization and workforce needs and the tough economic environment that the company is currently operating in.

“We understand that this news is difficult, and we want to assure you that this decision was made lightly,” it said.

“You will be issued with a Certificate of Service upon clearance by your line manager and handing in any company property in your possession issued during your period of employment.”

The journalists, employed by Rak Media Group, the parent company of the two newspapers, began their industrial action on July 24, demanding substantial pay increases amid rising inflation in South Sudan.

They accused the management of intimidation after raising concerns about the significant salary gap between local and expatriate staff.

Local staff reported earning less than $100 a month in the rapidly depreciating South Sudanese pound, while foreign colleagues received thousands of dollars in salaries, along with benefits such as accommodation and transport.