Juba, August 3rd, 2023 (MFA&IC) – The suspension order on U.N. Radio Miraya FM has been lifted, marking a significant step towards resuming broadcasting in South Sudan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation witnessed this development, accompanied by the official handover of the operational license and frequency from the Media Authority and National Communication Authority (NCA).
During a joint press conference, key figures including Hon. Michael Makuei Lueth, Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and Postal Services, Hon. Deng Dau Deng, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nicholas Haysom, SRSG/Head of UNMISS in South Sudan, Elijah Alier, Managing Director of the Media Authority, and Eng. Napoleon Adok Gai, Director General of NCA, addressed the latest developments.
Hon. Michael Makuei Lueth conveyed the announcement of the suspension order’s lifting against Radio Miraya FM and the subsequent legalization of its operations in the country. He applauded the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for adhering to registration protocols, considering it an essential responsibility.
“We adhere to UN actions, but compliance must align with our country’s laws. After free registration, operations proceed akin to other media outlets. Miraya FM will be instrumental in disseminating the peace agreement, road map, and government’s election plans,” he highlighted, urging Radio Miraya to play a crucial role during the upcoming elections.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Deng Dau Malek, emphasized that the Ministry acknowledges the provisions outlined in the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between UNMISS and the South Sudanese government. This agreement facilitates unhindered communication and installation of UNMISS equipment and radio, alongside tax exemptions for frequency allocation.
“Our Ministry persists in fostering effective communication and coordination between the government and UNMISS. Through robust collaboration, we are determined to find mutually advantageous solutions,” Hon. Deng stated.
Nicholas Haysom, Secretary-General’s Special Representative, expressed gratitude to Hon. Deng Dau and Hon. Michael Makuei Lueth for lifting the suspension of Radio Miraya. This development enables Radio Miraya to serve the people of South Sudan with an impartial, independent, and peace-centric broadcast.
Haysom underscored, “The Resolution, aligned with the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), upholds UN Radio’s rights while confirming radio frequency compliance with domestic communication laws.”
Elijah Alier Kuai, Managing Director of the Media Authority, publicly acknowledged the joint efforts by the Ministry of ICT and Postal Services, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs. These efforts culminated in a political and diplomatic resolution, paving the way for the reinstatement of Radio Miraya’s operations.
