CEPO Calls for Responsible Information Sharing Amid Public Panic in Juba

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has issued a strong plea to citizens across South Sudan to exercise caution and responsibility when sharing information about public safety, particularly regarding unverified or misleading reports. This call follows an incident on November 27, 2024, in Juba City, where the circulation of inaccurate information caused widespread panic, resulting in many residents halting their business activities prematurely.

Mr. Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of CEPO, stressed the importance of early warning systems in crisis communication but emphasized the necessity of delivering information in a professional and factual manner. “Engaging in early warning is crucial, but it must be approached with the highest standard of accuracy,” Yakani stated. “Misinformation can lead to unnecessary fear, causing people undue stress and disrupting their daily lives.”

The situation in Juba has highlighted a troubling trend where the government’s slow response or lack of proactive communication on public safety matters allows individuals or groups to fill the information void, often with false claims. This dominance of inaccurate information not only fuels public anxiety but also hampers effective response efforts during emergencies.

CEPO has called on the government to take immediate action to improve its public information dissemination strategies concerning early warnings and safety protocols. “The government must prioritize accurate early warning information,” Yakani added. “When citizens are equipped with truthful data, they are better positioned to respond appropriately in times of crisis.”

The implications of spreading unconfirmed information are particularly dire in a context as fragile as South Sudan, where the stability and safety of communities can be precarious. As such, CEPO is advocating for a collaborative approach, urging both the government and the public to work together in promoting responsible communication.

In conclusion, CEPO reminds citizens that while sharing timely information is essential, it must always adhere to the principles of accuracy and professionalism to foster a safer and more informed society.