JUBA – Kalisto Lado, the former mayor of Juba City, was released by South Sudan’s National Security Service (NSS) on Friday after being detained for over five months. The release comes amid widespread rumors on social media that Lado had died while in NSS custody. His lawyer, Wani Santino Jada, confirmed the release, stating that they would not provide further details until they had consulted with their client.

Lado was arrested on March 30, 2024, under unclear circumstances. While authorities confirmed his detention, they did not explain the reasons behind the arrest. Before his detention, Lado had been vocal about land grabbing issues in and around Juba. Following his arrest, the government charged him with multiple crimes, including conspiracy, subverting the constitutional government, and supplying weapons to insurgents. He was also accused of possessing dangerous weapons and spreading false information harmful to South Sudan.

The release was welcomed by the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), a civil society group that had been advocating for Lado’s release. Edmund Yakani, CEPO’s Executive Director, praised those who contributed to the efforts to secure Lado’s release and called for accountability for those responsible for his arbitrary detention. He emphasized the importance of respecting human rights and upholding the rule of law.

Rumors of Lado’s death had circulated just days before his release, sparking public outcry and demands for transparency from the authorities. Yakani condemned the spread of false information and urged the government to ensure that justice prevails.