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.