Creation of court martial will promote accountability in W. Equatoria: UNMISS
September 9, 2024 (MARIDI) – A General Court Martial to promote justice and accountability for crimes committed by South Sudan’s military officers has been established in Maridi County of Western Equatoria State with technical and financial support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
The court ruled in 12 cases, including cases of rape and murder. Eight soldiers were convicted, dismissed from the military, and sentenced to prison, while the remaining soldiers were acquitted.
The judicial process is regarded as a significant step towards enhancing discipline within the military and building trust with the civilian population.
The process has been hailed as an important demonstration of South Sudan’s willingness and ability to hold its military to account, improve discipline, build trust and confidence with civilian population, and advance peace and security.
Soldiers serving with the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) wield enormous power in their conflict-affected country. They prevent outbreaks of violence and enhance peace and security by providing a protective presence, particularly in places where intercommunal conflict is rife.
However, these soldiers can also cause huge harm when they abuse their position and commit crimes against the very people they are supposed to protect, including robbery, rape, and even murder.
“That is why we are committed to promoting accountability among our ranks. We are ready and willing to hold anyone who commits crimes, including conflict related sexual violence, accountable,” said Colonel Mayiel Riak, Acting Director of Military Justice within SSPDF).
At the end of the process, a one-day event was held to bring the military together with more than 50 representatives from local authorities, communities, and civil society to build trust and confidence.
The Civil Affairs Officer serving with the peacekeeping mission, Rudolf Esombi said the judicial proceedings in Maridi are likely to be followed by similar, UNMISS-supported activities elsewhere in the country,
“Court hearings are platforms where we can all discuss our common problems and seek common solutions while committing ourselves to durable and sustainable peace. We are committed to assisting the rule of law not only in Western Equatoria but across South Sudan,” he said.
According to UNMISS, plans are underway to extend support to these judicial proceedings to other locations to help strengthen the rule of law in South Sudan.
(ST)