Youth leaders from the Greater Bahr el Ghazal region have called on the government to review the cases of 18 individuals in detention, including political figures and former government officials, and ensure that those facing allegations receive due process.
The appeal was made in a statement read in Juba by the Chairperson of the Bahr el Ghazal Youth Union, James Lual Malek.
The youth leaders called for the release of detainees where there are no legal grounds for continued detention, while urging that those facing allegations be brought before competent courts.
The individuals named in the statement include General Akol Koor , Dr Benjamin Bol Mel, Dr Marial Dong-Ring Ater, General Dominic Juk-Chong, Dr Chan Anderia, Engineer Deng Lual Wol, Honourable Marco Deng-Magok, Engineer John Kot, Achor Bol, General Wang Chang, Honourable Simon Akui Deng, General Christoph Thorn-Magodich, Ambassador Ajin Deng Ajin, Lieutenant General Marshall Stephen and Chan Malong, among others.
Addressing the presidency, the youth leaders appealed for what they described as a fair review and resolution of the cases.
“Your Excellency, as the youth leaders, we humbly appeal to your leadership and state to ensure the ultimate review and local resolution of the cases of the 18 individuals under detention.”
The youth leaders said their appeal was not intended to determine the guilt or innocence of any individual, but to promote justice and the equal application of the law.
They also expressed concern over reports of threats, intimidation and harassment against young people who peacefully express their views, calling on security and law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties professionally and respect human rights.
In a further appeal, the youth leaders said they remained committed to supporting peace, reconciliation, social cohesion and national development.
“Our message is simple: peace over confrontation, justice over impunity, unity over division, dialogue over intimidation and responsible leadership over personal interests.”
The youth leaders said a fair and lawful resolution of detention cases would support national reconciliation and help strengthen public confidence in justice institutions.
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