The Female Journalists Network (FJN) has condemned the killing of veteran South Sudanese journalist and human rights activist, Veronica Gordon, following an ambush by unidentified gunmen in Western Equatoria State.
Gordon was reportedly attacked and killed on Thursday along the Lui–Mundri Road in Mundri East County.
In a statement issued on Friday, the organisation described her death as a painful loss to the journalism profession and extended its condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and the wider media community.
FJN said the killing of a journalist went beyond the loss suffered by relatives and colleagues, warning that such attacks posed a threat to press freedom, freedom of expression and media safety.
The network called on relevant authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the incident and ensure that those behind the attack were identified and prosecuted.
It also urged the government to strengthen security measures to protect journalists and civilians from violence and other threats.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a safe working environment for female journalists in South Sudan, insisting that media practitioners must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of attacks, intimidation or threats to their lives.
It also prayed for the peaceful repose of Gordon’s soul.
Gordon was a broadcast journalist and human rights advocate in South Sudan. She co-founded the Association of Media Women in South Sudan (AMWISS) and made history in 2014 as the organisation’s first female executive board member.
