Jonglei State Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk has issued an order for the house arrest of Isaac Mamer Ruk, the state’s Minister for Land and Housing, citing his involvement in activities deemed to be “jeopardizing the peace and security of the state.”
In a letter dated 22 January, and seen by Radio Tamazuj, Governor Turuk accused Ruk of playing a role in the recent unrest and violent protests that erupted following the killing of South Sudanese nationals by Sudanese armed forces during the capture of Wad Madeni, Sudan.
The governor’s order stipulates that Ruk will remain under house arrest “until further notice,” while an investigative committee, formed by Turuk, will probe the minister’s alleged involvement in various security incidents across the state, including the looting of the Marol Market in Bor, which saw Sudanese-owned businesses attacked during the protests.
Turuk emphasized that Ruk is a primary suspect in the events that led to the destruction at the market, an accusation the minister has strongly rejected.
In his response to the order, Minister Isaac Mamer Ruk strongly denied the charges, calling them “baseless and unfounded,” and accusing the governor of political motivations.
“I am one of the people who own shops in Marol Market,” Ruk said. “My shop is rented, and I rely on the 300,000 SSP I earn monthly to support my family. Why would I want the market to be looted? These accusations are politically motivated. Governor Mahjoub is politically bankrupt with ideas.”
Ruk further contended that the governor lacks the legal authority to suspend or arrest him but has chosen to comply with the order in an effort to maintain peace.
The state minister also made an appeal to the office of the president, urging for the removal of Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk to “prevent further unrest and instability in Jonglei state.”