Activist Raphael Juma Zachariah Released from Detention

By Majur Chol Khor

JUBA – A long-awaited development, Raphael Juma Zachariah, was finally released yesterday from the Blue House, a detention center in South Sudan. However, his release comes with conditions, sparking calls for complete freedom from activists and human rights organizations. The National Security Service (NSS) granted Zachariah conditional release, a decision that has been met with mixed reactions. 

“I appreciate the NSS for according to him the FREEDOM,” said Activist Bol. The release is seen as a positive step towards respecting civil rights and freedoms. Activist Bol Deng Bol, however, expressed his concerns regarding the conditions attached to Zachariah’s release.“NONETHELESS, I want to further extend a humble appeal to the same authority to grant him a complete FREEDOM from being pursued by dropping the conditions,” Bol said. He argued that Zachariah did not commit a crime and that criticism should not warrant arrest, detention, threats, intimidation, or torture. Bol emphasized the need for tolerance, respect, and the protection of civil rights in the country.

Zachariah’s release has brought attention to the plight of other detainees in NSS detention centers. “It’s worth reminding people that Biar Ajak Marol, Morris Mabior, among other citizens, are believed to be in NSS detention centers,” Bol stated. He took the opportunity to call for their immediate release and accountability.

Zachariah’s journey has been fraught with ups and downs. He was initially arrested on December 4th and released on the 21st, with the condition to issue online and offline apologies and provide a commitment letter. However, on December 23rd, he was rearrested, causing further concern among activists and human rights advocates.

In response to Zachariah’s continued detention, activist Bol Deng and the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) among others have called for his immediate release. “We demand the immediate release of Raphael Juma Zachariah,” Bol declared on Saturday, December 30th, 2023.

The case of Raphael Juma Zachariah highlights the ongoing struggle for civil rights and freedom of expression in South Sudan. As the country enters 2024, activists and citizens are urging the government to respect and protect these fundamental rights enshrined in the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan 2011 (as amended) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.