Government Clarifies Detainees Released on Medical Grounds Are Not Cleared of Charges

By Patricia John

Several individuals held under investigation have been released on medical grounds but remain subject to ongoing legal proceedings, according to the Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny.

Speaking to the media, Minister Ateny stated that because the case is still at the investigative stage, it does not fall under the Ministry of Information’s mandate to disclose detailed information.

“It was still under investigation, at the level of investigation, which doesn’t fall under the Ministry of Information,” Ateny explained.

While confirming reports that a number of detainees had been released, the minister clarified that their release was strictly based on medical grounds and does not mean they have been cleared of the allegations. According to Ateny, approximately three or four individuals were granted “strong bail” to allow them to seek medical treatment abroad while their cases remain pending.

“Instead of allowing them to die in the cells, they were given a strong bail so that they go for medical attention abroad,” he said, emphasizing that their release should not be interpreted as a dismissal or conclusion of the case.

Ateny also declined to disclose the names of those released, citing legal considerations and the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence prior to a court verdict.

“Legally, you cannot talk about somebody who has not been sentenced. If you talk about somebody who has not been sentenced, that is the time now you are sentencing them,” he stated.

The minister’s clarification comes amid public reports regarding the release of individuals linked to the ongoing investigation.