South Sudan has introduced new media guidelines restricting how journalists can film or photograph President Salva Kiir during official events, with the Office of the President saying the measures are aimed at protecting the dignity of the Presidency and maintaining professional standards.
Under the new rules, local and international journalists covering the President and state functions will not be allowed to capture him with his eyes closed, mouth open or showing what authorities consider unflattering facial expressions.
The guidelines were published on Friday by the Office of the President.
Journalists have also been instructed not to film or photograph Kiir while he is eating, drinking or taking part in private moments. They are further required to avoid recording him while walking unless the footage has been officially approved for ceremonial, arrival, departure or protocol purposes.
The Office of the President has reserved the right to review, restrict or deny media access if journalists fail to follow professional standards or security requirements.
Local media reports indicate that journalists could also be required to sign the guidelines before being allowed to cover presidential events.
The new rules have attracted attention because of South Sudan’s existing concerns over press freedom and the working environment for journalists. The country has previously faced criticism over restrictions placed on media workers and the treatment of journalists covering government activities.
One incident often linked to concerns over presidential coverage occurred in December 2022. Footage broadcast by the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation showed the 74-year-old President standing during the national anthem at an opening ceremony in Juba.
The footage appeared to show a dark patch spreading down his trousers.
Journalists were accused of releasing the footage to the public, with the incident reportedly leading to criticism from state security authorities, who described the publication as harassment.
The latest guidelines come at a time when South Sudan continues to face scrutiny over media freedom. In its 2026 press freedom index, Reporters Without Borders ranked the country 118th out of 180 countries.
This was an improvement from its 109th position in the 2025 index.
The organisation, however, said the situation remained difficult, describing press freedom in South Sudan as extremely fragile. It said journalists continue to work under threats and intimidation, while censorship remains a major concern.
The new guidelines are therefore likely to renew debate about the balance between protecting the dignity and security of the Presidency and allowing journalists to independently cover public officials and state events.
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