Five civil rights activists detained by security personnel in Rumbek last week were released without charges after three days of torture and intimidation.
The university students were arrested on April 15 after presenting a petition to Speaker of Lakes State Parliament to explain why the National Transitional Constitutions was violated in regard to electing a new governor.The Constitution says the caretaker governor has to organize new gubernatorial elections within two months in office.
Samuel Marial Dongrin told CRN that Speaker John Marik Makur read the petition and promised to receive the delegation again.
He said the group was picked up by some security officers the following night.
The activist revealed that they were tortured and interrogated at gunpoint for three days.
Mr Marial said the security officers warned the activists not to tell anyone about their ordeal at the security offices.
He added that they were told to abandon their activities and remain quiet at home.
Mr Dongrin lamented that they do not have freedom to seek justice in Lakes State due to the government’s hostility.
The rights activists vowed not to give up on their activities.
Lakes State Civil Rights unregistered group was formed two months ago to push for justice and democracy in the State.