In a distressing turn of events, we must draw the attention of all concerned parties, including the loved ones, community, and friends of 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak, as well as the people of South Sudan, civil society, and advocates for human rights, to a severe violation of human rights that demands immediate action.
On December 26th, 2023, 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak, who is currently being pursued by the South Sudan National Security Service (NSS), was apprehended by paid agents associated with the Ugandan Interpol in Gulu. Without any delay, he was swiftly transferred to Kira Road Police Station, where he is presently being held with the intention of deporting him back to South Sudan.
The accusations leveled against 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak in South Sudan revolve around his alleged involvement in a coup attempt, a claim he vehemently denies. Even the government of South Sudan itself has denied the occurrence of any coup attempt on November 12th, 2023. Despite this denial, numerous officers from different armed forces units have been unjustly imprisoned, subjected to torture, and treated inhumanely. These actions are being carried out in an attempt to justify a coup that never actually took place.
According to 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak and his legal representative, the highest office of the Government of Uganda has approved his extradition, with the transportation to South Sudan scheduled for today. He will be accompanied by Uganda Interpol and officers from the South Sudan National Security Service attached to the South Sudan Embassy in Uganda.
It is evident that 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak is being used as a scapegoat, and there are valid concerns regarding his safety, even if he were to reach South Sudan.
The case surrounding 2nd Lt. Akol Bak Chok Yak’s extradition to South Sudan is fabricated, disguised as a police matter. In reality, the NSS intends to take him directly to the Blue House or MI detention facility, where he may face torture or execution.
We urgently appeal to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the United Nations Office of Human Rights, and Amnesty International in Uganda to intervene before it is too late.
It is now evident that Uganda is not a secure sanctuary for South Sudanese individuals seeking refuge from the oppressive regimes in South Sudan. The head of Interpol in Uganda and the Ugandan government have succumbed to bribery, committing grave crimes against humanity. Their actions must be halted immediately
