Kalisto was arrested by NSS operatives on Saturday last week and his place of detention is not yet known, family members say.
Peter Wani Elia, Speaker of the Central Equatoria State Parliament, said Ladu’s arrest violates freedom of expression and civil liberties.
“This arrest comes in direct violation of fundamental human rights and democratic principles, as enshrined in the constitution of our nation,” Wani said, speaking during a press conference in Juba yesterday Wednesday.
“Freedom of expression must be safeguarded and respected as a cornerstone of civic engagement,” he added.
The top state member of parliament added that “The Central Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly vehemently condemns this flagrant disregard for the rule of law and the suppression of dissenting voices.”
Wani stressed the importance of due process and fair legal proceedings, regardless of an individual’s political beliefs.
The Speaker also expressed concern about reports of a young man’s killing on Tuesday in Lado Payam, allegedly by land grabbers.
“The Central Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly calls upon the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into both the arbitrary arrest of Mr. Kalisto and the brutal killing of the innocent youth,” Wani said.
He demanded the release of Kalisto or that he be charged in a court of law within 24 hours.