The legal fraternity in South Sudan is seeking protection from state security agencies, citing harassment of advocates by the National Security Service. Recent incidents show a trend of detentions without warrants and denial of legal representation, particularly for those seeking redress at the East African Court of Justice.
Lawyers have filed complaints with the EACJ, highlighting cases like that of Wani Santino Jada, an advocate facing intimidation for representing a client who sued the government over the arbitrary arrest of her husband, former Juba Mayor Kalisto Lado. Despite threats from security agents, Jada remains committed to seeking justice.
The situation has raised concerns about human rights violations and lack of legal protection in South Sudan. The EACJ and human rights organizations have documented cases of intimidation and arbitrary detentions, calling for action from regional and international bodies to address these violations.