Activist calls for civic space in Jonglei

BOR – Bol Deng Bol, a civil society activist and human rights defender based in Jonglei state, has urged the Jonglei state government to allow citizens to freely express their views.

Bol, serving as the executive director of the civil society organization NITREPID South Sudan, made these remarks during the commemoration of the 75^th anniversary of International Human Rights Day on Thursday in Bor.

“While there is a better understanding of the need to protect and promote human rights, many people continue to fall outside the realm of human rights protection. Our responsibility remains as grave and significant as it was in 1948 when the UDHR was adopted,” Bol expressed.

He added that the South Sudanese government continues its efforts to build a society that respects civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

“In Jonglei state, the civic space remains restricted. The media lacks independence and freedom, while Freedom of Expression and Assembly face constraints imposed by State Authorities, with the National Security Service exercising intimidating measures, detaining, assaulting, and subjecting civil society activities to security surveillance with impunity,” Bol stated.

He also highlighted the unimplemented 35% affirmative action by the government, stating, “The Executive Organ of the Government has only implemented 8% of the 35 percent affirmative action, whereas the State Legislative Assembly has exceeded to 40%.”

Bol emphasized the prevalence of harmful cultural practices like forced marriage and gender-based violence, stressing the need for legislations to combat these negative norms.

Acknowledging the state government’s initiation of accountability procedures through the formation of an investigation committee, Bol commended this move, stating, “Civil Society appreciates your initiative for accountability by investigating current and former government officials. This should never be regretted.”

He urged transparency in the findings of the investigation committee: “Please, put it on the table for us to see and be assured that Government officials are not above the Law.”

Bol concluded by affirming the progress in people’s awareness of their human rights and freedoms in Jonglei State over the past two years. He emphasized the commitment of civil society as an unwavering watchdog.

As the world commemorates the 75^th anniversary of International Human Rights Day, Bol underlined the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in guiding the realization of human rights and freedoms worldwide.