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BENTIU - 25 Jul 2013

Unity State governor criticizes prison conditions

Unity State Caretaker Governor Joseph Monytuil criticized prison conditions in the state after paying a visit to Bentiu Prison on Tuesday.

The governor described the conditions there as dire. He expressed his concern over the condition of the inmates in the Bentiu Prison and vowed to improve their situation.

Monytuil also criticized the practice of keeping prisoners for a long time without facing trial. He directed the judges to carry out their duty.

According to the administrator of prisons, Col. William Riak Riek, there were 138 prisoners at the time of the governor’s visit.

During the morning visit, the governor ordered the release of one prisoner, a head chief called Magok Gatluak, who was arrested for a “slight mistake” he had committed while heading a special court.

Gatluak was responsible for settling cases brought to a special inter-county court in Nhialdiu Payam. He was reportedly detained over failure to settle cases and suspected involvement.

Photo: Governor Joseph Monytuil (center) during a tour of the state soon after taking office, July 2013.