The UN Mission in South Sudan and the Human Rights office released a report today about how restrictions on freedom of expression delays peace process in South Sudan.
In a joint press briefing in Juba today UNMISS’ Human Rights Director, Eugene Nindorera says during the period of July 2016 to December 2017, his officer has recored (60) verified incidents which violate the legitimate right to freedom of expression of 102 victims, including 17 women.
The reports says the incidents include killing, arbitrary arrest and detention of 58 people, closure or suspension of three media houses, censorship of newspaper articles and the blocking of websites.
The report also found out that government security forces, including the National Security, SPLA, and Police, were responsible for the two-third of the verified cases.
‘It is vital that the voices of all the people of South Sudan are heard so that genuine, inclusive and durable peace can be achieved’ UNMISS chief, David Shearer said. ‘All parties to the conflict must respect people’s right to freedom of expression regardless of their ethnicity, beliefs or political views’ he adds.
The report also acknowledges efforts by the Government, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote an inclusive and safe environment for freedom of expression and democratic dialogue including the release of political activists and journalists.
UN report recommends that the authorities should ensure that all violations of freedom of expression are promptly investigated and persecuted. And they should ensure also that the Media Authority is fully operational, independent and adequately resourced.
Many victims said they had not lodged formal complaints because of fear of reprisals by the powerful people and lack of trust in institutions indlucing law enforcement and the judiciary, the reports notes.