The Minister of Information, Communication and Postal Services has suspended the Managing Director of the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), John Madol Panther, following a recommendation from the broadcaster’s Board of Directors, according to sources familiar with the matter.
An SSBC staff member, who spoke to the Aweil News Agency on condition of anonymity, confirmed the suspension and described it as an administrative matter but declined to provide further details.
Other sources, however, said the SSBC Board of Directors raised concerns over alleged mismanagement at the national broadcaster and recommended Panther’s suspension.
The sources said the Managing Director could face an investigation, with the outcome expected to determine whether he is cleared of the allegations or found responsible for any wrongdoing.
SSBC management has denied reports of mismanagement, describing the allegations as false. Management maintained that reports circulating about the Managing Director’s suspension do not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the matter.
Panther himself has also rejected reports that he has been removed from office, arguing that the SSBC Board of Directors does not have the legal authority to suspend or remove him from his position.
“The Board has no power to suspend me,” Panther said, disputing reports of his removal.
The conflicting accounts have left the circumstances surrounding the Managing Director’s status unclear.
Neither the Ministry of Information, Communication and Postal Services nor SSBC has publicly detailed the specific allegations or provided a formal explanation of the legal basis for the reported suspension.
Further clarification from the ministry and the SSBC Board is expected to determine whether Panther has been formally suspended, placed under investigation, or remains in office pending a decision by the relevant authorities.