South Sudanese and international human rights groups on Friday urged the national government to improve human rights ahead of the UN Human Rights Council elections on Tuesday.
In a letter to President Salva Kiir published on Friday, the groups called for justice for civilians unlawfully killed by security forces in Jonglei and Western Bahr el Ghazal states.
It also called for an end to unlawful arrests and detentions across the county.
Human Rights Watch Africa Director Daniel Bekele said South Sudan as a new country should set itself firmly to respect human rights.
He added that ‘South Sudan’s leadership should make a public commitment to improve its human rights record ahead of the elections and put its promises into effect before February, when the winners will take their seats.’
The letter also called on President Kiir to ensure journalists and human rights defenders are protected from harassment and arbitrary arrests.
It also asked for action to end child and forced marriage.
South Sudan is among five African countries running for four seats on the Human Rights Council, a body responsible for human rights promotion and protection cross the globe.