UJOSS Yei branch elects new executive body

UJOSS Yei Branch members pose for a group photo. (Photo: Radio Tamazuj)

The Union of Journalists of South Sudan’ (UJOSS) office in Yei in Yei River County of Central Equatoria State over the weekend elected a new executive body to run its affairs after the previous executive body served for close to eleven years.

Speaking to the media after being elected as the new UJOSS chairperson in Yei on Saturday, Buga Alex, urged the new executive to be united and promised that they will deliver.

“We are very ready and revitalized to do the work. We have all heard the advice and if we truly work together, we can make UJOSS Yei Branch a great one that the national union will even admire,” he said. “The national leadership of UJOSS will continue to visit and engage us in many activities if we remain united and work as a body as one.”

For his part, Agele Benson, who served as the chairperson of the union’s Yei office for 10 years, urged the newly elected body to move the union forward but advised them to cooperate with the government and stakeholders.

“I really want to encourage you to hold this responsibility with much love and commitment so that you will be able to move this union to another level and that means you need to work together,” he advised. “You need to work with the government and other stakeholders. Sometimes it is challenging and many times you will be called to answer some questions about the actions of some media practitioners. You have to handle this positively as it is your duty.”

“Do not shy away because at times you have to rescue journalists from certain situations and make certain parties understand the role of the media,” Agele added.

The UJOSS members in Yei said they were happy with the smooth election and transition to a new executive body which will address the challenges faced by local scribes.

The newly elected executive body will serve for two years.

Buga Alex was elected chairperson, assisted by Vivian Nandege, Lemi Emmanuel is the union’s secretary assisted by Likiso Favour, Awule Ezio comes in as the information secretary and will be deputized by Juru Winnie, among others.

The election brought together about 25 journalists from media houses across Yei River County.