The family of the ousted governor of South Sudan’s Wau State Elias Waya Nyipuoc is demanding their father be released or given rights including the right to know the charges against him and the right to a trial.
Sarah Elias Waya, who is Waya’s daughter, told Radio Tamazuj that her father has been in detention for about a month without any investigation or charge.
She pointed out that her father is being detained at military barracks in Juba also known as Giyada. She revealed that her father was arrested based on orders issued by the SPLA Chief of General Staff Gen.Paul Malong.
“He is still in detention, we do not know what happened up to now, but the letter for the arrest of my father was bearing the signature of Paul Malong on 26 June”said Sarah.
Sarah further said Elias Waya’s health condition was deteriorating, saying her father is suffering from high blood pressure. She called on the government to release her father or take him to court.
For his part, Edmond Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), described the former governor’s detention as a “violation of human rights” enshrined in the country’s constitution and international law.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, the leading activist called on the government to respect the rule of law. Yakani stressed that the detention of the former governor for a month without trial is unacceptable.
He pointed out that President Kiir recently issued a presidential decree granting amnesty offer to all political detainees and prisoners of war. Yakani called on the relevant authorities to release Elias Waya or take him to court.
File photo: Elias Waya