The South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) has assured citizens of their safety ahead of the Christmas festivities, pledging heightened security measures before, during, and after the holiday period to ensure peaceful celebrations across the country.
The assurance was made by South Sudan’s National Police Spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Monday Anoka, while speaking during the opening of a three-day National Conference on Combating Hate Speech and Strengthening Social Cohesion in Juba.
The forum aims to confront divisive narratives and promote responsible communication as part of broader efforts to sustain peace and stability in South Sudan.
Held under the theme “Beyond the Painful Divides,” the conference is organized by the Media Authority in collaboration with Journalists for Human Rights (JHR).
It brings together State Ministers of Information, representatives from the Three Administrative Areas, civil society actors, media managers, editors, and journalists from across the country.
Maj. Gen. Anoka said the police have put in place comprehensive security arrangements for the festive season, including increased patrols in urban centers, markets, churches, residential areas, and along major roads.
He added that officers will be deployed at public gatherings and places of worship to deter crime and respond swiftly to any incidents.
“The National Police Service is fully prepared to ensure the safety and security of citizens before, during, and after the Christmas celebrations,” Anoka said, calling on the public to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel.
Addressing the conference, the police spokesperson warned that hate speech poses a serious threat to national cohesion, peace, and human rights.
He cited a rise in incidents of hate speech targeting individuals, groups, and institutions, particularly through social media platforms.
Anoka said such speech can incite violence, inflame ethnic tensions, and undermine stability especially during sensitive periods such as elections and national celebrations.
He recalled regional examples where unchecked hate speech led to communal violence, emphasizing the need for early prevention.
“Hate speech is not freedom of expression; it is a criminal offense under the laws of South Sudan,” he said, noting that the Media Authority Act and other legal frameworks provide for accountability.
The police spokesperson reaffirmed the commitment of the National Police Service to investigate hate speech cases, arrest suspects, and prosecute offenders in accordance with the law.
He stressed that policing in South Sudan is guided by principles of professionalism, respect for human rights, fairness, and accountability.
While acknowledging challenges facing security institutions, Anoka said the police remain dedicated to protecting lives and property and maintaining public order in partnership with communities.
Maj. Gen. Anoka underscored the critical role of the media in shaping public discourse, describing it as a powerful tool that can either promote peace or fuel division.
He urged journalists and media managers to practice ethical, conflict-sensitive reporting and to verify information before publication.
He commended the Media Authority and JHR for creating space for dialogue, noting that trust-building between the media, security institutions, and communities is essential for preventing crime and violence.
Concluding his remarks, the police spokesperson called for collective responsibility in maintaining security, stressing that peace and safety cannot be achieved by security forces alone.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility,” Anoka said. “Through dialogue, responsible communication, and cooperation with the police, we can prevent crime, combat hate speech, and ensure peaceful celebrations.”
He reassured the public that adequate security measures are in place nationwide and urged citizens to report suspicious activities through established channels.
As South Sudan approaches the Christmas holidays, the police appealed for unity, restraint, and mutual respect, calling on citizens to celebrate peacefully and contribute to a safe and harmonious festive season.
