By Lodu William Odiya
A General Court Martial in Wau has sentenced a soldier serving with the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) to 10 years in prison for the abduction and murder of a United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) national staff member.
According to a statement that was released by the UNMISS communications department, the soldier was found guilty of abducting and killing their staff member while he was on official duty in Hai Masna on December 15, 2025.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered the accused to be reduced in rank and dismissed from the SSPDF. It also awarded compensation of 51 head of cattle to the victim’s family.
Meanwhile, the judgment allows the convicted soldier the right to appeal.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, welcomed the ruling, describing it as an important step towards accountability for crimes committed against UN personnel in South Sudan.
“This judgment is a milestone in efforts to ensure accountability for crimes against United Nations personnel in South Sudan,” Gbeho said.
She expressed appreciation for the participation of the deceased staff member’s family in the proceedings and extended her condolences over their loss.
UNMISS also commended the witnesses who testified during the trial, noting their contribution to the pursuit of justice for the victim.
The mission further recognised the efforts of South Sudanese authorities in advancing accountability in the case.
The ruling comes amid broader concerns over the safety of United Nations personnel serving in conflict-affected areas and the need to ensure that crimes against them are investigated and prosecuted.
Since UNMISS was established on July 9, 2011, a total of 19 peacekeepers have been killed and 32 others injured in malicious acts, according to the mission.
Meanwhile, the General Court Martial in Wau has heard 10 cases and delivered judgments in eight of them, resulting in the conviction of four SSPDF members and the acquittal of four others.
Additional cases remain under investigation or are being considered for trial.
The proceedings reflect ongoing efforts by national authorities to address alleged criminal conduct within the military through judicial processes and reinforce accountability among members of the armed forces.
The latest judgment also highlights the importance of ensuring justice for victims and their families while upholding the right of accused persons to appeal court decisions.
UNMISS continues to support efforts aimed at promoting peace, protecting civilians and strengthening the rule of law in South Sudan.