A prominent South Sudanese lawyer accused security forces on Tuesday of suppressing free speech through intimidation and arbitrary arrests, saying fear of the agencies has silenced many citizens.
William Othwon, a human rights defender, called on authorities to uphold constitutional freedoms during a two-day workshop on human rights and the rule of law organized by the Hold The Child Organization in Juba.
“People fear security forces because when you are caught, they think you are going to be tortured,” Othwon said. “Freedom of expression must be respected. Let people talk, don’t forbid them.”
He said national security officers should protect citizens’ rights instead of intimidating them and allow public gatherings and debates without interference.
“In other countries, security agents are not known publicly, but they still gather information quietly,” he added, suggesting a less confrontational approach.
Othwon outlined the constitutional separation of government into the executive, judiciary, and legislature, noting the Ministry of Justice falls under the executive branch. He emphasized the importance of the South Sudan Human Rights Commission, civil society groups and the media in promoting accountability in South Sudan.
Addressing international humanitarian law, he told military officers at the workshop that soldiers are obliged to protect civilians and prisoners of war.
“If you capture people, don’t kill them — keep them until the Red Cross comes,” he said.
Othwon also appealed to military officers not to repeat the oppression that South Sudanese fought against during the liberation war.
“You liberated us from Arabs,” he said. “We cannot suffer again in your hands.”
The workshop brought together representatives from the judiciary, civil society, security forces, and government institutions.
The event was attended by Deputy Defense Minister Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol.