People's Watchdog - 211

02/03/2026

In Solidarity with the departed Journalist

Thank you for commemorating the journalists and media workers we lost in 2025 by lighting a candle in our digital vigil.

Each 🕯️you light represents an act of solidarity & resistance.

If you would like to honour their memory, you can light a candle here:

➡ https://internifj-ux.github.io/Light-a-candle-for-a-journalist-or-media-worker-killed-in-2025/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQLvCtleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6RkFPZUxIWWkxR3lFbVRZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHnnAsZso5GKJBkBWiaO8QTrC3vXaFrWoOuukElN40M2gSASGFeaaBPcMOTGt_aem_I3bMOEO4LXrzuQiHZJExXw

06/10/2025

16/09/2025

Billions Stolen While Citizens Starve: UN Exposes South Sudan’s Systematic Looting

People’s Watchdog 211 – September 16, 2025

A new report from the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has laid bare the scale of corruption at the heart of the nation’s leadership, accusing senior officials of siphoning off billions of dollars since independence in 2011.

The report reveals that government authorities have orchestrated elaborate schemes to divert public revenue, enriching a small circle of elites while the majority of South Sudanese citizens endure hunger, poverty, and insecurity.

South Sudan, endowed with vast oil and natural resources, remains one of the most impoverished nations in the world. Instead of investing in food security, healthcare, and education, the UN says ruling leaders have “systematically looted” state funds, leaving the country trapped in crisis.

President Salva Kiir, who was recently seen at the inauguration of Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam, is among those implicated. To date, the government has issued no official response to the damning allegations.

For ordinary South Sudanese, the revelations confirm long-standing suspicions: that the suffering of millions is the direct result of corruption, greed, and deliberate neglect by those entrusted to lead.

The UN report adds weight to growing calls—both at home and abroad—for accountability, transparency, and real reforms in governance. Without them, the dream of peace and prosperity in the world’s youngest nation risks slipping further out of reach.

12/09/2025

The 7th Anniversary of R-ARCSS: Truth on Trial, Peace Under Siege.

By Diney Gatkuoth

I joined peace lovers in South Sudan and beyond to celebrate the 7th anniversary of the Peace Agreement. For the first time, I became fully convinced about Dr. Riek Machar, who was once placed under house arrest, and yet today—on the very day he signed that agreement now being undermined by the Juba Quagmire regime—he stands firm. Let us hope that this challenge too shall be overcome.

H.E. Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon today met with a team of lawyers at his residence, who will serve as his legal representatives to confront the politically concocted charges announced by the Juba Quagmire regime. These legal representatives are not ordinary individuals; they are men and women of rare integrity who have, time and again, proven their independence, courage, and professionalism. In past cases, they have stood their ground, refusing to be used as tools of persecution, and they continue to embody that same spirit today.

Encouragingly, they found Dr. Machar in good health and high spirits. He remains ready to face the future with optimism, knowing that truth is on his side. His resilience in the face of repeated political persecution is not only a personal triumph but also a symbol of the strength and hope of millions of South Sudanese who still believe in peace and justice.

On this 7th anniversary of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), we are reminded of both the fragility and the endurance of peace. While attempts are being made to weaken and destroy the very foundation of that peace, history shows us that truth and justice always prevail in the end.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely that of the writer, devoid of anyone’s views.

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.

21/07/2025

South Sudan’s Sovereignty Faces Expiration Deadline Amid International Tensions

Juba, South Sudan – July 21, 2025

A dramatic declaration has shaken diplomatic circles across Africa and the global stage, as a firm ultimatum has been issued declaring the sovereignty of the Republic of South Sudan will be deemed null and void by midnight, 28th August 2025, unless specific political and humanitarian conditions are urgently met.

The demand is anchored primarily on the release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny, the former First Vice President and a key figure in the country’s political landscape, alongside a number of unnamed political detainees and prisoners of conscience. These individuals are believed to have been held without fair trial, in contravention of national and international laws.

According to the pronouncement—believed to have been initiated by regional political advocacy blocs, legal scholars, and rebel-aligned civil societies—the continued arbitrary detention of opposition leaders and peace stakeholders is seen as a betrayal of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and an erosion of the very principles that justified South Sudan’s recognition as a sovereign nation in 2011.

🔺 A Sovereignty Countdown: The 28 August Deadline

The timeline—ending at 11:59 PM on 28th August 2025—has been set as a non-negotiable cut-off. Should the government of South Sudan fail to comply with the terms, a proposed resolution will be submitted to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), and the IGAD Council of Ministers, urging the termination of South Sudan’s membership in these international and regional bodies.

> “The international recognition that South Sudan enjoys is not unconditional,” the declaration reads. “Sovereignty must be built on justice, liberty, and the rule of law—not detention, deception, and disregard for constitutional order.”

🌍 Implications of Membership Termination

If acted upon, such measures could lead to:

Suspension or total revocation of South Sudan's seat at the United Nations General Assembly.

Freezing of AU and IGAD diplomatic engagements and exclusion from mediation frameworks.

Sanctions on top leadership, travel bans, and possible economic blockades.

Recognition of an alternative transitional authority supported by regional civil society, rebel movements, and diaspora technocrats.

📌 Reactions and Silence from Juba

As of this publication, no official statement has been released from the government in Juba. Key ministries, including Foreign Affairs and Justice, have remained silent, while opposition-aligned groups have begun to mobilize protests and international petitions, calling for the unconditional release of Dr. Riek Machar and other detainees before the expiry date.

Analysts warn that the timeline could escalate tensions in an already fragile peace environment, with ripple effects that may lead to civil unrest, military crackdowns, or a complete collapse of governance structures.

🔍 Looking Ahead: A Choice for Legitimacy

Observers note that the choice now lies with President Salva Kiir and the transitional administration: either to uphold the rule of law and reaffirm South Sudan’s commitment to democratic governance, or to allow the country to slide into the shadows of unrecognition and international isolation.

As the clock ticks toward August 28th, the world watches—and waits.

Truth. Accountability. Justice. That's our commitment.

09/06/2025

SSBC Official Statement on Unauthorized Use of Logo and Content

Juba, South Sudan – The South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC News) has issued a public warning regarding the unauthorized use of its official logo and media content by several fake online pages.

According to SSBC, these impersonating platforms have been re-recording and redistributing SSBC news content, often distorting it to promote false or misleading narratives. This misuse not only violates copyright laws, but also damages the credibility of SSBC and misleads the public.

> “We strongly warn the administrators of these anonymous pages to immediately cease using the SSBC logo and content. We demand a public apology, failing which we will pursue legal action without further notice,” reads the official statement.

SSBC reaffirmed that only its verified page, operated under the oversight of its editorial board, represents the legitimate voice of the national broadcaster. The corporation reiterated its constitutional mandate: to inform, educate, and entertain with accuracy and integrity.

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious pages, and trust only the official SSBC platforms for credible news and national updates.

📢 This news has been republished by People’s Watchdog 211 to boost public awareness and protect media integrity in South Sudan.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely that of the writer, devoid of anyone’s views.

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.

📸 SSBC page

12/05/2025

ICD will uncover all covered crimes.

03/05/2025

When Journalists Are Silenced, We No Longer Have Access to the Full Story

By People's Watchdog - 211

Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we pause to recognize the immense value of a free and independent press and the grave danger we face when that freedom is under threat, particularly in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Every day, journalists around the world risk their safety, livelihoods, and even their lives to uncover the truth. From war zones and courtrooms to local councils and rural communities, they shine a light where others would rather darkness prevail. Their work empowers citizens, exposes corruption, challenges the powerful, and keeps democracy alive.

Yet, in far too many countries, journalists are silenced through censorship, harassment, imprisonment, and in the worst cases, murder. Today, new threats have emerged: algorithmic bias, disinformation campaigns, and AI-generated deepfakes that blur the line between fact and fiction. Powerful interests, both public and private, are working harder than ever to manipulate narratives and drown out independent voices. In such a climate, truth becomes a casualty.

When journalists are silenced or outpaced by synthetic content the stories that matter most go untold. Abuses remain hidden, injustices persist in the shadows, and public trust erodes. We, the people, are left not only with half-truths, but with carefully engineered illusions. We are no longer informed we are influenced.

The People's Watchdog 211 stands in unwavering solidarity with all reporters, editors, photojournalists, and media workers who continue to speak truth to power despite mounting digital and political threats. We honor the memories of those who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth, and we raise our voices for those unjustly imprisoned not just for their words, but for their integrity.

To protect journalism is to protect democracy.
To support reporters is to support accountability.
To defend press freedom is to defend our right to know especially in a world where truth is increasingly automated and authenticity is under siege.

This World Press Freedom Day, let us not take the truth for granted. Let us advocate for media literacy, demand transparency in AI technologies, and champion the rights of those who bring us the stories that matter unfiltered, uncompromised, and unafraid.

Support journalism. Protect
Safeguard the truth in a digital age.

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.

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17/04/2025

Important Update from People Watchdog - 211

Dear followers, supporters and partners,

We would like to inform you that People Watchdog - 211 will be taking a short operational break to focus on important internal development work. During this time, we will be enhancing our website infrastructure, strengthening page and profile security, and improving our overall digital presence to serve you better and more securely.

This pause is part of our ongoing commitment to professional growth, transparency, and accountability in everything we do.

While we may be temporarily less active, this is not a goodbye. We encourage all of you to stay connected, continue following the page, and most importantly, invite your friends and networks to follow us as well. Your support means everything, and it ensures that our voice remains strong and impactful.

We look forward to returning soon — stronger, safer, and more equipped to serve the public interest with timely and credible reporting.

Until then, we wish you well and thank you for standing with us.

With respect and commitment,
The People Watchdog - 211
Management Team

17/04/2025

Shein and Temu Warn U.S. Shoppers: Prices Set to Rise as Tariffs Hit Hard

Reported by Kelly Ng | BBC News |
Two of the world’s biggest Chinese online retailers — Shein and Temu — have issued a clear warning to their U.S. customers: expect higher prices starting 25 April.

In near-identical statements, both companies said they are adjusting prices due to “recent changes in global trade rules and tariffs”. These changes come after President Donald Trump reimposed steep tariffs on Chinese imports — some reaching as high as 145%, and when stacked with existing levies, potentially 245%.

Adding to the pressure, the Trump administration has also scrapped the duty-free exemption on goods under $800 — a rule that helped Temu and Shein rapidly dominate the U.S. market with ultra-low prices and fast shipping. U.S. lawmakers had accused the companies of “exploiting” the exemption, as 1.4 billion packages entered the U.S. under this rule in 2023, compared to 140 million a decade ago.

Impact Already Visible

App Rankings Plummet:

Temu is now the 75th most downloaded app in the U.S. Apple Store, down from top 5.

Shein has dropped to 58th place, down from 15th just last month.

Ad Spending Slashed:

Temu cut all Google Shopping ads in the U.S. as of 9 April.

Its daily ad spend on platforms like Facebook and YouTube fell 31%.

Shein’s ad spending also dropped by 19%, according to Sensor Tower.

Meanwhile, other Chinese retail apps like DHgate and Alibaba’s Taobao remain in top positions — suggesting the full impact of tariffs may take more time to ripple across the e-commerce landscape.

Temu and Shein's Message to Shoppers:

“We’re doing everything we can to keep prices low and minimize the impact on you. Our team is working hard to improve your shopping experience. We stand ready to make sure your orders arrive smoothly during this time.”

This shift marks a turning point not just for global trade but for millions of online shoppers who rely on affordable goods from these platforms. Whether this leads to new buying habits or changes in U.S.-China commerce, one thing is clear — the price of politics is now hitting the digital shopping cart.

Disclaimer: The Opinions Expressed here are solely that of the writer, devoid of anyone’s views.

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.








https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3r8v2l8vwpo?at_link_id=F88C21AA-1B6F-11F0-B5EF-B47697F74207&at_format=link&at_campaign_type=owned&at_bbc_team=editorial&at_ptr_name=facebook_page&at_medium=social&at_campaign=Social_Flow&at_link_origin=BBC_News&at_link_type=web_link&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR5F0aHvKH9j9ey3rcIr6qUuERr8FOI5j7O7ebje0MyxhHqvJ-StvEDHaWfsNw_aem_ENXwli7MOnVoRpUQhCbwJA

17/04/2025

SSPDF, Agwelek, and Abushok Forces Enter Ulang Town Peacefully After Granted Passage — A Strategic Move or Something More?

Ulang, South Sudan — In a surprising and unprecedented development, troops from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), along with Agwelek and Abushok forces, have entered Ulang town without resistance after being granted safe passage.

The peaceful arrival of these forces has caught many by surprise, prompting speculation about a broader strategic alignment or undisclosed negotiations behind the scenes.

While local residents have expressed a mixture of relief and unease, questions are mounting: Is this a temporary military coordination? Or could it signal a shift in alliances, a ceasefire arrangement, or a deeper political strategy unfolding?

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement clarifying the purpose of this coordinated movement, leaving tension simmering as the community waits for further information.

Stay tuned as we continue to monitor the situation.

Reported by Nuer.tv

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.

Disclaimer: The Opinions Expressed here are solely that of the writer, devoid of anyone’s views.

SSPDF, Agwelek, and Abushok Forces Enter Ulang Town Peacefully After Granted Passage — A Strategic Move or Something More? In a surprising turn of events, troops from the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF), alongside Agwelek and Abushok forces, have entered Ulang town without confrontatio...

15/04/2025

"The Second Vulture: A Lesson in Humanity"

In the early 1990s, an unforgettable image shocked the world — a vulture standing behind a frail, starving little girl during the 1993/94 Sudan famine. That photograph, captured by South African photojournalist Kevin Carter, went on to win the Pulitzer Prize.

But behind that lens was a man silently spiraling.

As the world applauded his "exceptional eye" for capturing human suffering, Kevin battled deep guilt. During a radio interview, a caller asked, "What happened to the little girl?" Carter replied, "I didn’t wait. I had a flight to catch." The caller then uttered haunting words that would echo in his mind:

“There were two vultures that day… One had a camera.”

That single statement pierced his conscience. The guilt became unbearable. Just months later, Kevin Carter took his own life.

His story forces us to ask hard questions:

🌟 In our pursuit of success or recognition, are we ignoring those we could help?

🌟 Do we see suffering and walk away because it's not our “job”?

🌟 Are we, too, becoming the second vulture?

Kevin Carter’s story isn’t just about journalism or famine — it’s about choosing humanity over applause. The truth is, he could have saved a life… and instead, captured a tragedy.

Let’s be better.

Let’s be human first.

In whatever we do whether with a camera, a platform, or a voice let us remember that the true purpose of life is to touch other lives. Fame fades. Awards gather dust. But kindness echoes forever.

So ask yourself… Are you the second vulture?

People’s Watchdog 211 — Standing for Truth. Standing for Humanity.

Disclaimer: The Opinions Expressed here are solely that of the writer, devoid of anyone’s views.