South Sudan’s deputy chief justice warns journalists about media misrepresentation

JUBA – South Sudan’s Deputy Chief Justice, John Gatwech, has raised concerns and issued a stern warning regarding interactions with the press, posing potential threats to journalists’ work.

Speaking during the Judicial Reform Committee Consultations in Juba on Thursday, Gatwech expressed apprehension about engaging with the media due to a perceived risk of misrepresentation and manipulation of statements.

“There is one thing we know about the press. John Gatwech here will say one thing, and then they will make additions and say things we do not say. That is the problem,” Gatwech stressed.

He emphasized the severity of the issue, asserting that any misrepresentation or alteration of their statements would lead to consequences as it goes against legal regulations.

“I want to tell you, if we find out that somebody is saying something we have not been said here, we will have a problem with that person,” he said.

Gatwech firmly stated the judiciary’s non-political stance and urged the media not to involve or manipulate their statements for political agendas.

“The law says that we are not politicians. Don’t drag us into politics or do things against the judiciary and say something which has not been said,” he said.

Gatwech stressed the necessity for journalists to uphold professional ethics and accurately present the statements made during consultations.

His cautionary remarks are raising concerns about the potential implications for press freedom and the challenges faced by journalists in reporting sensitive issues including human rights in the world’s youngest country.