ESSCA-USA STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF GOVERNOR BAKOSORO

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FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE

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ESSCA-USA STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF GOVERNOR BAKOSORO

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August 20, 2105 (SSB) —- On Sunday, August 16, 2015 President Salva Kiir Mayardit issued a decree dismissing Governors of four states. Major General Clement Wani Konga Gwollo of Central Equatoria, Colonel Joseph Bangasi Bakosoro of Western Equatoria, Major General Simon Kun Puoch of Upper Nile and Nyandeng Malek Deliech of Warrap state and replacing them with caretaker governors.

While the reason(s) for these dismissals are unclear, in the case of Gov. Bakosoro, it’s highly suspicious given the recent unrest in Mundri, Maridi, and Yambio, and Gov. Konga being an outspoken critic, as well as the proximity to the peace deal unfolding in Addis Ababa. Although the constitution grants the president powers to dismiss governors on grounds of national security, it appears these dismissals are purely politically driven by President Kiir and his government’s desire to consolidate power.

Furthermore it is unclear why Governor Bakosoro was detained and arrested in Juba, unlike the other governors. Until proven otherwise, we have been receiving reports that Governor Bakosoro is being subjected to possible torture, and humiliation. Hence, ESSCA-USA condemn in a strongest terms the arrest of Governor Bakosoro and calling for his immediate release. And we call on the President Kiir and Chief of Staff of the SPLA General Paul Malong Awan to ensure the safety and well being of the governor. Until Governor Bakosoro is released, the government must announce on what charges the Governor is being held under and his whereabouts must be disclosed.

The dismissal and further arrest of Governor Bakosoro unnecessarily stirs up anger and frustration among the Equatorian population who hold Governor Bakosoro in high regard. This is a provocation to Equatorians and further indication that President Kiir continues to espouse an authoritarian form of government to intimidate and temp down any critics of president and this government.

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PaanLuel Wël

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PaanLuel Wël is the founder and editor-in-chief of PaanLuel Wël Media Ltd, a news website that covers news, opinions, analysis, history, culture and literature of South Sudan and the world. Founded in July 2011 by PaanLuel Wël to create a platform for free expression and constructive dialogue, the website features articles from various contributors, including columnists, commentators, poets, authors, activists and academics. PaanLuel Wël believes that media can play a vital role in informing, educating and empowering the people to participate in nation-building and social transformation. He also believes that media can foster a culture of dialogue, tolerance and diversity among different communities and groups, and hopes to inspire and mentor the next generation of South Sudanese writers and journalists.

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