JUBA, South Sudan — The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) revealed a series of conflicts and legal challenges involving journalist Ruot George Mut, who had been contracted by the organization earlier in 2023. The disputes, which began with a disagreement over contract terms in July, escalated into accusations, legal battles, and public allegations against UJOSS leadership.
In January 2023, Mut signed a six-month contract with UJOSS, with his salary funded by contributions from three different projects. As his contract neared its end in June 2023, UJOSS management announced the renewal of staff contracts, effective July 3, 2023. However, Mut, who was away on assignment, did not return to Juba until July 7. Upon his return, he received a new contract signed by the UJOSS Secretary General but refused to sign it, citing substandard terms, a desire for a different position, and a demand for a 333% salary increase. Negotiations broke down, and by July 20, Mut proposed working without a contract, which UJOSS rejected, leading to his departure from the organization.
The situation further deteriorated when Mut threatened to “destroy UJOSS” after receiving a letter of appreciation for his services. An urgent executive meeting was held on July 23, 2023, to address the issue, but Mut left the meeting after a confrontation, citing cultural disrespect. The UJOSS executive subsequently decided to relieve him of his duties.
Mut later sought legal redress, demanding six months’ salary for wrongful dismissal, which UJOSS refuted, stating he was not dismissed but had refused to sign the contract. The case escalated as Mut reported UJOSS to various authorities, including the Media Authority and the Ministry of Labour, and accused the organization’s leaders of corruption in letters to state offices and donors.
In a March 2024 ruling by the Ministry of Labour, it was determined that Mut did not have a valid case against UJOSS. Despite this, Mut continued his campaign against the organization, eventually suing UJOSS for unfair dismissal in court—a case that was dismissed on July 17, 2024.
In response to Mut’s ongoing defamatory statements, UJOSS filed a complaint with the Media Authority, which led to a meeting in July 2024. The Media Authority found Mut at fault and requested that he issue an apology.
