ESSCA-USA STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF GOVERNOR BAKOSORO

YPSILANTI, MI – On Sunday, August 16, 2015 President Salva Kiir Mayardit issued a decree dismissing Governors of four states. Major General Clement Wani Konga Gwollo of Central Equatoria, Colonel Joseph Bangasi Bakosoro of Western Equatoria, Major General Simon Kun Puoch of Upper Nile and Nyandeng Malek Deliech of Warrap state and replacing them with caretaker governors.
While the reason(s) for these dismissals are unclear, particularly in the case of Gov. Bakosoro, it’s highly suspicious given the recent unrest in Mundri, Maridi, and Yambio, Gov. Konga being an outspoken critic, and the proximity of the dismissals to the peace deal unfolding in Addis Ababa. Although the constitution grants the president powers to dismiss governors on grounds of national security, it appears these dismissals are purely politically driven by President Kiir and his government’s desire to consolidate power.
Furthermore it is unclear why Governor Bakosoro was detained and arrested in Juba, unlike the other governors. Until proven otherwise, we have been receiving reports that Governor Bakosoro is being subjected to possible torture and humiliation. Hence, ESSCA-USA condemns in the strongest terms possible the arrest of Governor Bakosoro and calls for his immediate release. We call on President Kiir and Chief of Staff of the SPLA General Paul Malong Awan to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the governor. Until Governor Bakosoro is released, the government must announce on what charges the Governor is being held under and his whereabouts must be disclosed.
The dismissal and further arrest of Governor Bakosoro unnecessarily stirs up anger and frustration among the Equatorians population who hold Governor Bakosoro in high regard. This is a provocation to Equatorians and is further indication that President Kiir continues to espouse an authoritarian form of government to intimidate and temp down any critics of the president and this government.
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