The South Sudan Civil Society Forum has issued a sharp condemnation against what it describes as ongoing intimidation tactics employed by security agents targeting civil society leaders and journalists in the aftermath of recent peaceful protests in Bor.
The demonstrations held on 17 and 24 June in Jonglei State drew diverse groups including civil society activists, women, youth, and businesspeople among others. They were organized to raise awareness and protest about pressing issues such as the exorbitant cost of living, delayed payment of government salaries, escalating insecurity, and burdensome taxes on local businesses.
In a statement released on Monday, the Civil Society Forum underscored that these protests were a legitimate expression of public discontent echoing throughout South Sudan, not merely confined to Jonglei State.
However, instead of addressing the substantive concerns raised by demonstrators, the forum alleges that efforts have been made to suppress dissent through intimidation and coercion.
“On the evening of 24 June, the chairperson of the Jonglei Civil Society Network was summoned by the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly using baseless accusations of subversion and destabilization,” the statement read in part.
The forum further highlighted a disturbing incident where National Security agents reportedly shuttered the offices of a member organization without justification, placing a “closed until further notice” sign on the door. Such actions, the Civil Society Forum asserts, flagrantly violate international norms of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as well as South Sudan’s constitutional protections.
Expressing deep concern over reports of a journalist’s detention and alleged torture in Bor, the forum called for the immediate release of the journalist and urged accountability for those responsible for his mistreatment.
“We call on the authorities in Jonglei State and security agents to cease any further harassment or threats against civil society leaders, activists, and journalists,” the forum demanded. “Upholding the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly is fundamental to fostering a democratic and inclusive society.”
The South Sudan Civil Society Forum’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing civil liberties in the country amid escalating economic hardships and the imperative for authorities to uphold fundamental human rights protections.