Rumbek. Lakes State -26th feb 2025. In statement extended to Thejubamirror News Desk. Community Empowerment for progress Organization (CEPO), working in solidarity with the family of detained civilian Mr. Mayor Mou Adhor, are deeply troubled by the arbitrary arrest of former Press secretary of former governor Makur Kulang. Mayor Mou was kidnapped in the evening around 5 Pm in Hai Sora by alleged military intelligence (MI ) personal in juba on 13th February 2025.
As result of the dragnet approach, he was transported to Lakes State in the same night where he was arbitrary detained for 13 days without changes. This arbitrary arrest and detention constitutes a blatant disregard for fundamental human rights and democratic Principles, The unwarranted actions of the security forces,who forcibly kidnapped Mayor among his friends and cousin, is a gross violation of his personal Liberty and professional rights.
We urged government of lakes state who accused of his detention ton subsequently release him without. Condition transfer him to police custody if there are legal grounds to press charge (s)upon Mayor to justify their unlawful detention. Holding him incommunicado for 13 days without charges or conduct transparent and independent investigation is a cruel unusual punishment that contravenes both domestic and international law.
South Sudan is a signatory to the United Nation Charter the African Charter on human and People’s Rights both of which enshrine the principles of freedom of expression, assemble and association. These fundamental rights are further protected under the South Sudan constitution article 9 (2) (3), 10 . 12. 18. and 24 . The actions taken against Mr. Mou is in direct conflict with our constitution and above-mentioned commitments
Any deliberate attempt to intimidate and silence individual or group will a chilling reminder of continuous shrinking civic space for civilians and human rights defenders in Lakes state. Furthermore, we urge the government of South Sudan to take concrete steps toward protecting the rights of civilians , human rights defenders and to create and enabling environment for civil society to operate freely.
