Residents say stigma, threats, and social pressure continue to discourage victims from reporting abuse or agreeing to testify. Several community members who spoke to Sudans Post on condition of anonymity said survivors often face blame, isolation, or retaliation when they come forward.
“Some victims are afraid to testify because they fear being blamed or attacked,” a woman in Mundri West said. “Without protection, many cases remain unreported.”
Another resident stressed that unless authorities guarantee confidentiality and security during the court process, survivors and witnesses may choose silence over justice.
“If people are not protected, they will not come forward. The government must ensure their safety,” the source said.
The concerns come as police confirm that 29 cases — including conflict-related sexual violence — have been identified for prosecution. The cases were reviewed during a joint assessment conducted last week by police investigators, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and officials from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) field office in Yambio.
Speaking to reporters, the Inspector of Police in Greater Mundri, Major General Martin Mayiek, said the joint team determined that the cases require High Court attention.
“The joint team identified 29 serious cases that require High Court attention,” Maj. Gen. Mayiek said. “These are grave cases that must go through the proper judicial process.”
A Mobile Court will be deployed to Mundri West next month to hear and determine the cases, part of broader efforts to reduce case backlogs and expand access to justice in remote areas.
Despite the prevailing fear, some residents see the court’s arrival as a critical opportunity for accountability. James Lodu, a local resident, described it as a turning point for the community.
“This is a good move for our community,” Lodu said. “If the cases are handled seriously, it will send a strong message that sexual violence will not be tolerated.”
Maj. Gen. Mayiek urged survivors and witnesses to cooperate with investigators and use the Mobile Court session to pursue justice.
“We urge the community to come forward, register new cases, and reopen previous ones,” he said. “This is the time to ensure justice is served.”
Preparations for the session are ongoing. For many in Mundri West, however, the success of the Mobile Court may depend less on the number of cases heard — and more on whether survivors feel safe enough to speak.
