BOR, South Sudan – The National Security Service (NSS) reopened the office of INTREPID South Sudan (ISS) in Bor, Jonglei State, on Aug. 21, 2024, after a month-long closure. The office was abruptly shut down on July 2, sparking widespread condemnation and disrupting vital advocacy and humanitarian efforts in the region.
David Deng, ISS programs coordinator, confirmed the reopening and noted the closure had severely impacted initiatives like the Public Excellence Award project, supported by the Canadian Embassy. “We have been engaging with the security apparatus… our office is officially open,” Deng said.
The shutdown followed peaceful protests in Bor over delayed salaries and worsening economic conditions, leading to accusations against ISS Executive Director Bol Deng Bol, who remains in hiding. Deng emphasized ongoing negotiations with the NSS to ensure Bol’s safety.
Civil society leaders, including Peter Ajak Ayom of the Child Care Organization, welcomed the reopening but acknowledged the damage done to community efforts. The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has documented increasing civic space violations, including the arbitrary detention of journalists during protests earlier this year.
Criticism continues to mount against Jonglei Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk for his perceived inaction in the face of these abuses. Human rights organizations and international observers have urged South Sudanese authorities to uphold civil liberties and protect citizens’ rights.
NSS officials have not yet commented on the closure or the related harassment allegations.
