The family of a jailed government critic in Aweil is urging Northern Bahr el Ghazal Governor Simon Uber Mawut to fulfill his promise to pardon him after a 14-month imprisonment on defamation charges.
Dut Kuot Akook, a former finance ministry employee, was arrested February 26 and detained over an article criticizing the state’s administration.
In May, a court sentenced him to 14 months under a penal code provision criminalizing statements that harm someone’s reputation—a charge his family disputes.
During a June community meeting in Juba, Governor Uber pledged to initiate Akook’s release upon returning to the state capital, Aweil. But as of Thursday, Akook remains imprisoned.
“On June 8, Governor Uber publicly promised to pardon Dut Kuot, but he has not kept his word,” said Kuol Akook Dhil, a relative who spoke to Radio Tamazuj. “We are asking him to speed up the process so Dut can be freed.”
Akook’s friend, Angelo Akuoc, called the governor’s pledge a political move to deflect criticism. “It was a speech to convince supporters he is forgiving,” Akuoc said. “He’s been back in Aweil for a month—why no action?”
Garang Makuei, the governor’s deputy press secretary, said Governor Uber is willing to pardon Akook but must follow legal procedures.
“He can’t just order his release. The process involves the judge and prison authorities,” Makuei said.
Bulis Nguak Deng, a local civil society leader, urged the governor to honor his promise, citing the importance of reconciliation. “Forgiveness is key to peace. You can’t say you forgive someone and then not act,” Deng said.
He added that Akook’s family is struggling amid rising food prices. “His children are vulnerable. He should be released to support them during this difficult time.”