South Sudan journalist reports threats over coverage of Sudan killings

JUBA – A senior broadcast South Sudanese journalist working with Eye Radio said he received two threatening phone calls from individuals claiming to be national security personnel, which he believes are related to his reporting and social media posts about the killing of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan’s Al Jazira State in January.

Alhadi Awari detailed the calls in a statement extended to Sudans Post on Wednesday afternoon. He said the first call, on Feb. 11, warned him against further reporting on the incident, citing an order “from above.”

The caller, who didn’t identify themselves, mentioned the journalist’s alleged support of the government and personal connections as reasons for delaying his arrest.

The second call, on Feb. 18, questioned Awari about allegedly following national security surveillance vehicles.

Awari explained that the road to his office passes by the National Security Service headquarters. He said the caller became agitated and repeated the warning, again referencing personal connections as a reason for leniency, before issuing a “last warning.”

Awari expressed concern that he faces both personal and professional challenges, noting the delayed arrest related to his “social situation.” He also feels his professional standing is being undermined by these connections.

“I am facing both personal and professional challenges, especially regarding the delay in an arrest related to my social situation. I also feel that my professional standing as a journalist is being affected by personal connections,” he said.

He said he is not afraid and has contacted the relevant authorities.

“I am not afraid of the situation because of my years of experience in journalism, and that I’ve already contacted the relevant authorities.  I stand firm in my belief that the accusations against me are unfounded,” Awari said in the statement.

He described the anonymous calls as intimidating and frustrating, suggesting they are intended to silence him.

Awari is a veteran journalist and a respected figure in South Sudanese media. His allegations raise concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country.