By Hou Akot Hou
The Juba-based Aweil East County Youth Association has condemned remarks attributed to Gen. Mawein Mathiang Gor, chairperson of the Awan Pajok Community, regarding calls for the release of detained political figures, including former First Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel.
In a rebuttal letter, the youth association expressed concern over statements reportedly made by Gen. Mawein during a Thanksgiving ceremony organised by the Twic Mayardit Community in Juba on Friday to celebrate the release of Achan Agoth Akiec and other politicians, including Kom Kom Geng and Ayii Ayii Akol.
During the event, Gen. Mawein reportedly argued that Dr. Bol Mel should remain detained for life over alleged attempts to overthrow President Salva Kiir Mayardit. He also cautioned those recently released against advocating for Dr. Bol Mel’s release.
“Do you know how many people are being detained now, and they are from the Awan community? You keep on saying that Dr. Bol Mel has to be released. I warn people against such appeals,” Gen. Mawein was quoted as saying.
He reportedly accused Dr. Bol Mel and others of working to topple the president and said those released should not interfere in efforts to secure his freedom.
The remarks attracted criticism on social media, with some people calling on Awan Pajok community leaders to clarify the chairperson’s position and apologise.
In its response, the Aweil East County Youth Association said the reported remarks raised concerns about solidarity, fairness, and respect for human dignity.
“We write to express our serious concern and condemnation of the statements attributed to you during the thanksgiving ceremony,” the letter reads in part.
The association specifically criticised the reported call for members of the public to distance themselves from Dr. Bol Mel, who has reportedly been under house arrest for an extended period.
The youth body urged Gen. Mawein and the Awan Pajok Community leadership to respect the rule of law, arguing that any allegations against detained individuals should be addressed through the appropriate judicial institutions.
“Every individual deserves fair treatment under the law. If there are legitimate concerns or legal issues surrounding his situation, they should be addressed through appropriate institutions rather than public calls for isolation of someone who is already under house arrest,” the letter stated.
The association also called on Gen. Mawein to clarify the basis for his remarks and explain why members of the public should be discouraged from advocating for the release of a fellow South Sudanese citizen who, according to the association, has not been publicly charged despite his prolonged detention.
Meanwhile, some members of the Twic community in Warrap State also criticised the reported remarks, saying several of their sons, including Dominic Juuk and Ajiing Deng, remained in detention in connection with allegations involving Dr. Bol Mel.
They warned that the Awan Pajok Community could face public criticism if anything happened to those detained, citing the chairperson’s reported statements at the thanksgiving ceremony.
The controversy has renewed calls from community members for respect for due process and fair treatment of detainees, regardless of their political affiliations or community backgrounds.