UNESCO Saddened by the Loss of South Sudan Journalist Mr. Edward Terso
UNESCO extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and the South Sudanese media fraternity for the great loss of Mr. Edward Terso, founder and former Secretary General of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS).
In this role, late Edward Terso, led from the front in the promotion of press freedom, access to information and the safety of journalists in South Sudan. His dedication and sacrifices over many years of service contributed to the growth of the media sector in South Sudan.
The late Edward will be remembered for his commitment to the drafting of the South Sudan media laws, his advocacy for their ratification and implementation, which contributed to the improvement of an enabling working environment for the media in South Sudan
For many years, the late Edward represented the South Sudan journalists in various UNESCO meetings, globally, regionally and nationally, where he professionally advocated for the plight of journalists and other media workers in his country.
He was instrumental in establishing and successful coordination of the South Sudan Media Sector Working Group, where he co-chaired the safety of journalists thematic working group. Within this framework, he will be remembered for his great role in building the capacity of journalists through targeted training and mentorship programmes, promotion of the journalistic code of ethics among journalists and enhancement the UJOSS capacity for monitoring and reporting press freedom violations.
The late Edward fought for and promoted better working relationship between right and the duty bearers. On occasions where journalists had been attacked and media houses closed, he opted for negotiations rather than confrontations between the journalists, the security personnel and the designated Government institutions that were mandated to promote safety of journalists in the country.
UNESCO is therefore saddened by this great loss of a gallant journalist and defender of press freedom and urges the South Sudan Media fraternity to honour him by continuing with Edward Terso’s legacy.
His memories will remain with us and as his soul rests in peace