The UNMISS field office in Rumbek, Lakes state, has officially handed over a $49,500 human rights commission office to the Lakes State government.
The ceremony on Thursday was attended by government officials and representatives of international organizations operating in Lakes State.
State Human Rights Commission Chairperson Mahok Malual Kodi told Radio Tamazuj that it was a significant day as the office opened in the Meen-Atol area.
“They have built and handed it over to the government, and we are now on site,” he said. “I call on Lakes State residents to visit the Human Rights Commission office.”
William Deng Malek, head of the local organization HOVER, said they were awarded the construction tender by UNMISS to strengthen human rights in Lakes State.
Malek said the office was handed over fully equipped.
“We have three executive desks, chairs for the three offices, plus the hall,” he said.
Lakes State Minister for Cabinet Affairs Stephen Mathiang Deng Monydit expressed gratitude to the UNMISS field office in Rumbek, particularly its human rights division, for constructing the office.
“Let me extend thanks and appreciation to the members of the Human Rights Commission,” he said.
Monydit urged UNMISS to provide training on conducting human rights investigations.
Dominic Mabor, Lakes State deputy human rights commissioner, said the office was the first of its kind in the area.
He said the project serves the people of Lakes State in recognition of the lasting peace achieved by the state government.