UNITED NATIONS: In a scathing report released on Friday, the U.N Human Rights Commission expressed deep concerns over the actions of South Sudan’s National Security Service (NSS), accusing it of intimidating media and civil society and jeopardizing the prospects of a democratic transition in the country.
The report, which is based on the Commission’s independent investigations in 2023, meticulously outlines a series of attacks on journalists and civil society, both within South Sudan and beyond its borders. According to the U.N report, journalists have been subjected to surveillance, intimidation, and severe human rights violations, including arbitrary detention.
Yasmin Sooka, the chair of the commission, emphasized the critical role that independent media and a vibrant civil society play in fostering accountable governance and democratic processes, essential for peace and safeguarding human rights.
Political transition in South Sudan
South Sudan is currently undergoing a political transition after enduring a prolonged civil war from 2013 to 2018. The conflict was resolved through a peace agreement signed by President Salva Kiir and his rival turned Vice President, Riek Machar. In a bid to further stabilize the nation, elections have been scheduled for December 2024.
The report highlights specific human rights violations against Woja Emmanuel, a political reporter. Emmanuel publicly declared his resignation from journalism in May 2023, expressing fears for his life. Shockingly, the government has remained silent regarding these grave rights violations.
Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández expressed dismay over the increasing intolerance toward government critics in the run-up to the upcoming elections. He emphasized the urgent need for an impartial body to oversee and mitigate human rights abuses, as well as to address any disputes that may arise during the electoral processes.
Fernández criticized the South Sudanese government for prolonged delays in establishing transitional justice institutions, suggesting that such delays may be strategic moves aimed at perpetuating the dominance of ruling elites.
The report concludes with a strong appeal to South Sudan’s government to promptly halt unlawful media censorship and lift restrictions on civic and political activities. These actions are seen as vital steps toward fostering a more open and democratic society, crucial for the nation’s progress and prosperity.
