The Governor’s statement came following the arrest of the Imotong Community Chairperson.

By James Chatim

The governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Louis Lobong Lojore has urged the state security organs to stop the unlawful arrest of citizens.

Lobong made the statement on Tuesday during an emergency meeting with the legal administrator and head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) following the arrest of the Imotong Community Chairperson.

He ordered for the immediate release of the chairperson, identified as Taban Obur Kerleto.

According to the statement from the governor’s office, Mr. Taban was detained upon his return on 13^th January 2025, from the annual Imotong community meeting in Juba by the Department of CID, without a warrant of arrest.

“Governor of EES H.E Louis Lobong Lojore, has ordered the release of Imotong Community Chairperson Mr. Taban Obur Kerleto, after convening an emergency meeting with legal administrator and head of CID-Torit in reference to Mr. Taban who was detained upon his return on 13/Jan/2025, from annual Imotong community meeting in Juba by the department of CID without warrant of arrest or who clear,” the statement read in part.

“Based on crucial analysis by the state government legal administrator, it’s clear that the detention of Mr. Taban is unprocedural and has to be released with immediate effect and if there is anyone who has a case with Taban, should follow rightful procedure.”

Governor Lobong further urged the security organs to stop the unlawful arrest of citizens in the state and to avoid listening to anyone ordering for and influencing the detention of people.

“Therefore, it is a clear violation of civil rights, and its unacceptable in Eastern Equatoria State,” Lobong warned.

“Based on crucial analysis by the state government legal administrator, it is clear that the detention of Mr. Taban is unprocedural and he has to be released with immediate effect,” said a statement Governor Louis Lobong’s office.