By Lodu William Odiya
South Sudan National Youth Union has joined others in condemning the rape of a young girl in the Gumbo-Sherkat neighborhood of Juba.
On Thursday, a video of the assault was posted online, showing a girl being raped by a group of young boys believed to be part of a gang.
In a press release, the Union expressed deep outrage and heartbreak over the report of this merciless attack, describing it as a heinous act.
“It is not only a grave violation of the victim’s dignity and rights but also a stark reminder of the urgent need to confront gender-based violence in our communities,” the Youth Union stated.
The statement emphasized that the incident is not an isolated case but reflects a broader pattern of violence against women and girls in South Sudan.
“We echo the call of civil society leaders and human rights defenders: rape is a crime, not a cultural norm, and it must be treated with the full weight of the law,” the statement emphasized.
The Union condemned “in the strongest possible terms the weaponization of sex as a tool of violence.”
They called on the family of the young girl not to take matters into their own hands but to allow the law to take its course.
Additionally, they urged the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to thoroughly investigate the case and other related incidents, bringing those still at large into custody.
The Union further urged law enforcement agencies to declare zero tolerance for criminal gangs across the country.
“We commend the swift action taken by law enforcement agencies and urge the judiciary to ensure that justice is delivered without delay or compromise. Let this be a turning point—not just for justice in this case, but for a future where every girl can live free from fear,” they stated.
The Youth Union appealed to the national government to strengthen legal protections for rape victims and ensure accountability for all perpetrators of sexual violence.
They urged community leaders and families to break the silence and stigma surrounding rape and to support survivors with compassion and dignity.
The Union also called on mainstream media and digital platforms to act responsibly and prevent the spread of harmful content that retraumatizes victims.