Yakani reports death threats after criticizing security bill

JUBA – Prominent South Sudan civil society leader Edmund Yakani has said that he has received death threats, along with several members of his organization, following his criticism of the recently passed National Security Bill.

The legislation, passed by parliament on Wednesday, grants the NSS sweeping powers to arrest, detain individuals, monitor communications, and conduct searches and seizures – all without obtaining warrants from a judge.

Critics, including Yakani’s Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), argue these provisions violate the country’s transitional constitution and raise serious concerns about potential human rights abuses.

Speaking to Sudans Post this afternoon, Yakani who is the Executive Director of CEPOI, detailed receiving calls with foreign country codes believed to be from NSS agents.

He described three separate instances, a male caller on a number with the +250 (Rwanda) code at 9:15 am, a female caller on a number with the +252 (Somalia) code at 9:30 am, and another call at 10:00 am with the +249 (Sudan) code. All three calls, according to Yakani, threatened violence and death.

Yakani further stated that at least seven CEPO members have also received similar threats. These threats reportedly take the form of potential arrest or detention for speaking out against the National Security Act.

“We respect the principle of democracy, but a core aspect of that principle is allowing for dissent,” Yakani said. “As long as the debate and dialogue are non-violent, they should be encouraged.”

Yakani made a strong appeal to South Sudan’s leadership to investigate the alleged threats and ensure that freedom of expression is respected. He specifically called for a public warning from the National Security Service to its members, emphasizing that the new legislation should not be used to silence criticism.

“We are not at a point where our own citizens need to flee the country because of constructive debate,” Yakani stressed. “The parliament should seriously consider these threats and take action to ensure a safe environment for open discussion on important legislation.”

The National Security Service has not yet issued a statement regarding Yakani’s allegations. The incident raises concerns about the potential chilling effect the new National Security Bill may have on civil society and freedom of expression in South Sudan.