October 6, 2026 — Rumbek
A two‑day training in Rumbek has brought together more than 40 security officers and journalists in Lakes State to strengthen cooperation between the security sector and the media ahead of South Sudan’s long‑awaited general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. The initiative comes at a critical moment as institutions prepare for an electoral process expected to test the country’s commitment to transparency and peaceful democratic participation.
The workshop convened 30 security and information officers alongside 10 journalists from various media houses. It was organised by media consultant Paul Jimbo and the National Press Club, with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and UNESCO. Organisers said the training was designed to reduce tensions, improve communication, and ensure that both sectors understand their roles during the election period.
Speaking during the closing session, Jimbo emphasized the importance of building trust between security personnel and journalists. He said the training aimed to create an environment where both groups can work collaboratively rather than confrontationally. “The intention of this training is basically to strengthen the relationship and see how the media and security can work closely,” he noted.
Participants discussed a wide range of topics, including media ethics, access to information, freedom of expression, and the safety and protection of journalists. Facilitators highlighted that responsible journalism and professional security conduct are essential pillars for credible elections, especially in contexts where misinformation and political tensions can escalate quickly.
Lakes State police spokesperson Elijah Mabor Makuac welcomed the initiative but stressed the need for similar training at the county level. He said county‑based security personnel will be the first responders during the elections and must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle media interactions professionally. “If they are not trained and given this knowledge, what we are trying to solve here will be in vain,” Makuac warned.
Officials from the Lakes State Ministry of Information and Communication also participated in the workshop. The ministry’s Director General, Malok Mabeny, said journalists need further capacity‑building on election reporting and conflict‑sensitive journalism. He noted that responsible coverage can help prevent tensions and contribute to a peaceful electoral environment.
Journalists at the workshop raised concerns about delays in accessing information from security institutions. Peter Machuei Ater, who represented the media participants, urged security officials to provide timely and accurate information, saying such cooperation is vital for balanced reporting. He reaffirmed journalists’ commitment to the principles of truth, accuracy, balance, and impartiality throughout the election period.
The training also highlighted the importance of protecting journalists during elections. Facilitators noted that reporters often face intimidation, restricted access, or threats when covering politically sensitive events. Strengthening cooperation with security agencies, they said, can help reduce risks and ensure journalists can carry out their duties safely.
As South Sudan prepares for its first national elections since independence, initiatives like the Rumbek training are seen as essential steps toward building confidence in the electoral process. Organisers said they hope the lessons learned will be replicated across other states to ensure consistent standards of cooperation and professionalism nationwide.
South Sudan’s elections, delayed multiple times due to political and security challenges, are expected to be a defining moment for the country. Strengthening media‑security relations, stakeholders say, will play a crucial role in ensuring transparency, reducing misinformation, and promoting peaceful participation as the nation moves toward December 22.
