Human Rights Watch has called on South Sudan to stop the arbitrary detention of opposition leaders, following the arrest of 22 political and military figures. The organization emphasized the lack of due process and transparency, urging authorities to reveal detainee locations. These actions coincide with increased violence in the Upper Nile region, highlighting a deepening human rights crisis.
According to a statement by Human Rights Watch (HRW), South Sudanese authorities detained 22 political and military personnel in mid-February, violating human rights obligations. HRW urged the government to halt arbitrary detentions, disclose the whereabouts of detainees, and ensure adherence to due process. The majority of those arrested are associated with opposition leaders, including key figures such as Lieutenant General Gabriel Duop Lam and the Ministers of Petroleum and Peacebuilding.
Nyagoah Tut Pur, a South Sudan researcher at HRW, emphasized the detrimental impact of the arrests, stating that the lack of transparency exacerbates instability in a fragile security environment. He urged authorities to disclose the fate of detainees and uphold their rights by presenting them before an impartial court. The National Security Service (NSS), responsible for these arrests and disappearances, has not responded to inquiries regarding the detainees.
HRW has called for an end to enforced disappearances of detainees, urging the international community— including the UN and African Union— to pressure South Sudanese authorities to cease such actions. Article 2 of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance outlines enforced disappearances, emphasizing that such actions violate international norms even if South Sudan is not a party to the convention.
The recent wave of arrests aligns with violent clashes between government forces and armed groups in the Upper Nile region, resulting in the displacement of thousands of civilians. The crisis escalated further when attackers targeted a UN helicopter engaged in a rescue mission, leading to tragic casualties.
In summary, Human Rights Watch has urged South Sudanese authorities to cease arbitrary detentions of opposition figures and to guarantee due process for those detained. The ongoing situation raises serious concerns regarding human rights and stability within the region, as enforced disappearances and targeted arrests coincide with increased violence and civilian displacement. The international community’s role in advocating for the rights of detained individuals remains critical, reflecting the need for accountability and adherence to international norms.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
