A Joint Special Emergency Court (JSEC) has been established in South Sudan to hold members of the armed forces accountable for crimes against civilians. The court, launched in 2015, aims to address the pervasive violence and human rights violations in the country by tackling impunity.
A recent UN report highlighted the lack of punishment for serious crimes, implicating government officials and soldiers. Maj. Gen. Sadik Ismail Sidigi, leader of the court, emphasized the importance of upholding justice and integrity within the security sector.
Gen. Thomas Jal acknowledged that many crimes in South Sudan are committed by members of the organized forces. The court, with experienced lawyers and judges, will ensure fair trials for both military personnel and the public.
The Deputy President of JSEC, Thomas Tut Nyuon Kueth, reassured the public that senior officers will not be immune to prosecution. John David Kumori, Director of Public Relations in the National Security Service (NSS), praised the court’s previous work in handling cases without bias.