The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) has expressed deep concern over the detention of freelance journalist Adil Faris, who went missing on January 23. Faris, a former Managing Director of the South Sudan Television (SSTV)—now SSBC—is believed to be in the custody of the National Security Service (NSS) for undisclosed reasons.
In a statement, UJOSS strongly condemned the detention of journalists without due process or communication with their families.
“UJOSS strongly condemns the detention of journalists without due process or notifying their families. We call on 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,” the statement reads.
The union has also called for immediate dialogue with the NSS to address these concerns, urging the Media Authority to mediate. UJOSS emphasized that constructive engagement is essential to protect journalists’ rights while addressing any security concerns through lawful means.
“We stand ready to engage in dialogue and cooperation to foster a safe and enabling environment for journalists, which is vital to our country’s democratic and peacebuilding processes,” said UJOSS Chairperson Oyet.
Adil Faris and Emmanuel Monychol Akop, Editor-in-Chief of The Dawn newspaper, were both detained without communication. Monychol was reportedly taken into custody on November 28, 2024, and UJOSS’ preliminary investigations indicate that both journalists are being held at an NSS detention facility.