South Sudan Media Authority Gives Media Houses One Month to Renew Operating Licenses
Credit: South Sudan Media Authority
The South Sudan Media Authority has given media organizations across the country one month to renew their operational licenses, warning outlets operating without valid licenses to regularize their status.
In a notice issued Friday, the Media Authority said the directive applies to radio stations, newspapers, online media outlets, television channels and social media platforms and pages operating in South Sudan that are already registered with the authority but have failed to renew their operational licenses within the required period.
The authority said the notice was issued pursuant to Sections 7(35) and 7(39) of the Media Authority Act, 2013, which provide for the renewal of media licenses.
The Media Authority said a substantial number of radio stations have failed to renew their licenses, with some reportedly operating for six years or more without valid operational licenses. It added that other media outlets have also failed to comply with license renewal requirements.
“All affected media entities” have been directed to immediately begin and complete the renewal process in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
The authority said compliance was particularly important as the country approaches the electoral period, urging media organizations to regularize their licensing status without further delay.
The Media Authority emphasized that broadcasting and other regulated media entities operating in South Sudan are legally required to hold valid operational licenses and comply with the laws governing the media sector.
The authority said lists of media entities with expired licenses have been attached to the notice for reference and necessary action.
Media organizations have been given one month from Aug. 14 to comply with the directive.
