THE AFRICA TIMES | SOUTH SUDAN —
Mobile Court Frees Inmates in Jonglei State
Bor, Jonglei State – A mobile court concluded a month-long judicial session. As a result, 82 inmates were released from custody. The court successfully processed nearly 70 percent of its caseload.
The remaining 25 percent of cases remain unresolved. The primary reasons for this include time constraints as well as funding shortfalls.
Case Details and Court Operations
The mobile court operated from October 27 to November 26. It convened at the Jonglei State Central Prison, reviewing over 100 case files. These cases involved inmates accused of various offenses.
Many of these cases experienced significant delays. Such delays contributed to prison overcrowding and systemic inefficiencies. Last week, the court ordered the release of 57 individuals, with 25 more freed this past Wednesday.
UNDP Support and Case Backlog
Wilfred Gitara, UNDP Rule of Law Officer, elaborated on the court’s purpose. The mobile court aimed to address a backlog of 600 criminal cases. These cases accumulated in Bor and surrounding counties.
UNDP collaborated with the Judiciary of South Sudan. Together, they deployed a team consisting of four judges to expedite hearings. Two of the judges held High Court authority whereas the other two came from the County Court.
Outcomes and Future Judicial Processes
Gitara stated that the court managed over 100 cases. This total includes 35 serious criminal matters. Furthermore, the court reviewed cases from customary court processes, freeing 57 of 101 inmates.
Gitara stressed the court specifically targeted arbitrary detentions. He urged Jonglei residents to continue utilizing formal judicial mechanisms, even after the mobile court’s mission ends. A judge is permanently assigned to Jonglei State to ensure ongoing case management.
Broader Implications
The mobile court program is part of an effort to improve justice access. It also seeks to promote the rule of law. The program aims to decongest correctional facilities in South Sudan. The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) provides essential support.
