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The South Sudan Civil Society Forum (SSCSF) on Friday urgently called on President Salva Kiir to veto the National Security Service (Amendment) Bill passed by lawmakers last week.
The forum said the legislation gave excessive powers to the NSA, posed a serious risk of abuse and undermined human rights, fundamental freedoms and accountability.
Article 159 of the South Sudan Transitional Constitution Amendment clearly states: “The National Security Agency shall be professional and its duties shall be to collect and analyze information and provide advice to relevant departments.” It also stipulates: “The National Security Agency shall respect the will of the people, the rule of law, civilian power, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
“Provisions of the recently adopted National Security Law conflict with these constitutional mandates and should therefore be amended to be constitutionally consistent. The South Sudan Security Council stresses South Sudan’s obligation to comply with international human rights standards and the importance of security institutions operating within clearly defined mandates, respecting established protocols and human rights principles,” the statement read in part. “We implore President Kiir and the government to prioritize genuine security sector reform, improve operational standards, ensure strong oversight and accountability, and build professional capacity.”
It added: “Such measures are essential to foster free expression and trust among citizens, including the opposition, journalists and civil society organisations.”
The forum said that by undertaking these reforms, the government can create a more transparent, accountable and professional security sector that upholds the rights and freedoms of all South Sudanese.
It added that a clear distinction between intelligence and law enforcement is essential to upholding the rights, civil liberties and freedoms fought for in South Sudan’s liberation struggle.
“We must not forget the sacrifices made by those who fought to escape the clutches of their former oppressors. Furthermore, a strict separation of intelligence and law enforcement is essential to maintaining a stable environment, which is vital for economic growth and attracting foreign investment,” the SSCSF said. “The recently passed national security law threatens to create an environment of fear and irresponsibility that will discourage investment and inhibit economic recovery.”
South Sudanese security forces specifically urged President Salva Kiir to reject articles 54, 55 and 57, as well as any other oppressive provisions in the proposed legislation.
“Upholding the principles of justice, freedom and prosperity engraved on the nation’s emblem is essential to a bright future for all South Sudanese people. The hardships and sacrifices made in the liberation struggle were all for fundamental rights and freedoms,” the statement stressed. “These hard-earned rights form the foundation of South Sudan, where every citizen can freely express their ideas, participate in shaping the country’s future, and live without fear under the constraints of the law.”
The forum believes that signing this bill will betray the essence of the liberation struggle and the memory of those who laid down their lives for the freedom of the country.
“The SSCSF remains a steadfast advocate for a transparent, accountable government that prioritizes the welfare and rights of all citizens,” the statement concluded. “We call for an environment that supports checks and balances, strengthens judicial oversight, promotes a fair electoral process, and democratic governance.”
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