Several groups have called for the release of Aweil-based activist Dut Kuot Akok, who was detained by the National Security Service’s Internal Security Bureau (ISB) on January 20. His detention follows his criticism of the state government, sources have confirmed.
Akok, in a Facebook post, criticized Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Governor Simon Ober Mawut for failing to deliver during his first six months in office. Mawut was appointed by President Salva Kiir Mayardit in June 2024.
Akok also accused Mawut of being responsible for attacks on Sudanese traders and the looting of their property across the state. He further blamed the governor for failing to declare a state of emergency ahead of violent protests against Sudanese on January 17.
Reports suggest that Mawut ordered Akok’s detention, and that he has been held without investigation or due legal process, violating South Sudanese law. The country’s legal framework requires that detainees be presented before a court within 24 hours.
Tito Awen Bol, the outgoing chairman of the Aweil Youth Union, called for Akok’s immediate release while speaking to Radio Tamazuj. Bol noted the growing support for Akok among youth and said pressure on state authorities was mounting.
“There is nothing new, but the good thing is that most of the youth are now joining the calls for his release after my writings in support of the activist. Many pressures are mounting on the state government, and they are saying Akok could be freed soon,” Bol said.
He added, “Even yesterday, rumors circulated that Akok had been released, but upon further investigation, it turned out he had not been. The authorities are likely to release him soon given the growing calls for his release.”
Peter Diing Ngong, Executive Director of the Wider Aid and Development Agency (WADA-South Sudan), also called for Akok’s release, criticizing the lack of transparency surrounding his arrest.
“The circumstances of his arrest are unclear, and we are not happy to see him remain in detention. As citizens of South Sudan, we have the right to express our concerns about the state and the country,” Ngong said.
Bol Akuar Gamar, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, distanced himself from the case but reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensuring due process.
“The ministry has no further information on Dut Kuot’s case. We’ve heard mixed reports, but we are unsure of the details surrounding his detention,” Gamar said.
He added, “If he was indeed arrested, the authorities must either release him or bring him before a court to defend himself. This is our commitment as the ministry.”