Journalists Urged to Intensify Reporting on South Sudan’s Constitution-Making process

By Jenifer James

The Chairperson of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), Oyet Patrick , has urged journalists across the country to enhance their coverage of the ongoing process to draft a permanent constitution.

His remarks were made during a three-day training workshop in Juba, attended by over 100 journalists and representatives of the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), ahead of the anticipated 2026 elections.

“This is a national project — a collective endeavour that requires the active participation of every South Sudanese. Journalists are crucial in ensuring that accurate information about the constitution reaches the public, encourages civic education, and promotes public participation,” Oyet said.

He emphasised that reporting on the constitution-making process requires not only journalistic skills but also a deep understanding of South Sudan’s political and historical context. Oyet encouraged journalists to ask critical questions and foster inclusive public discourse.

“By equipping you with the necessary knowledge and tools, we aim to enhance your ability to contribute meaningfully to this historic process,” he said. “Your reporting will be instrumental in building trust, promoting civic education, and laying the foundation for a democratic and peaceful future for our nation.”

The workshop was organised to strengthen the media’s role in the democratic process and follows the March 2025 launch of a civic education and public consultation campaign by the NCRC.

Sapana Abuyi, Director General for Information and Media Compliance at the Media Authority, also addressed the gathering.

He acknowledged the challenges journalists face, including harassment, and highlighted the need for media freedom in shaping public awareness.

“This workshop is very important. Our commitment to a democratic constitutional process requires wide public consultation and extensive media coverage to ensure citizens can make informed decisions,” Abuyi noted.

He recalled the country’s long history of constitutional efforts, dating back to the 2005 interim constitution, and reiterated the necessity of a participatory current process.

“The democratic model demands that civic education and public consultation form the basis of the constitutional text. This is why empowering journalists is essential,” Abuyi added.