Greater Tonj Community Union Appeals for Release of Detainees, Urges National Reconciliation

The Greater Tonj Community Union has appealed to President Salva Kiir Mayardit to release South Sudanese citizens being held in detention facilities and under house arrest without formal charges, saying the move would uphold constitutional rights and promote national reconciliation ahead of the country’s planned general elections.

In a letter addressed to the President, the union called for the release of former National Security Bureau Director General Gen. Akol Koor Kuc, Christo Thon Magordit, and other individuals detained under similar circumstances. The organization argued that their prolonged detention without formal charges or transparent legal proceedings raises concerns about due process and the rule of law.

The union said the detainees have remained in custody for an extended period without being brought before a competent court to determine any alleged offences, describing the situation as inconsistent with the constitutional guarantees of liberty and personal freedom enshrined in South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution of 2011 (as amended).

According to the letter, detaining citizens outside established legal procedures could erode public confidence in the country’s justice system and create a precedent for the misuse of state authority.

The appeal urged President Kiir, as Head of State and guardian of the Constitution, to ensure that all citizens are treated in accordance with the law and that constitutional safeguards are respected without political interference or official overreach.

The Greater Tonj Community Union also called for a broader process of national reconciliation and political inclusion as South Sudan prepares for its general elections. It said all citizens, including Gen. Akol Koor Kuc and Christo Thon Magordit, should have the opportunity to contribute to national peace, stability, and development unless lawfully restricted through due judicial process.

The union further appealed to the President to initiate an inclusive national dialogue to build consensus on the country’s future, arguing that such a process would strengthen national unity, foster peaceful coexistence, and lay the foundation for a credible democratic transition.

The letter concluded by reaffirming the union’s commitment to working with the government to promote lasting peace, national unity, and democratic governance.The appeal was signed by Andrew Kuac Mayol Gai, Chairperson of the Greater Tonj Community Union.