Sudanese Newspapers and “Fourth Estate” Role: Impacts of Censorship on Anti-Corruption Campaign

Abstract

Logically censorship or self-censorship is always detrimental to any media whose ambition it is to be free and independent. self-censorship though exists in law, but when it is practiced it undermines the freedom of the press as the “fourth estate”. The first role of a watch-dog or “fourth estate” is severely restrained by self-censorship, lack of resources and political parties intervening in journalists’ work. It is further undermined by the economic dependence on business and political parties. Though Sudan has many local and national newspapers, still not enough attention has been paid to issues of censorship impact on corruption. In view of this, this study examines how censorship affects Sudanese newspapers’ practice fourth estate role especially in the fight against corruption. To achieve this, the study adequately probes into how ownership pattern affects Sudanese newspaper to perform their watchdog role in Sudan. Based on the analysis therefore, it was discovered that censor hip which is the outcome of ownership influence affects Sudanese press negatively in the “fourth estate” role more importantly restrained its fight against corruption. Therefore, for Sudanese newspaper to contribute usefully to fight corruption and promote good governance efforts should be intensified to free Sudan media from the control of politicians and government. Keywords: Censorship, Ownership, Fourth Estate, Newspaper, Corruption, Sudanese