USSP Condemns the Arrest of Ms Bernadette Justin Banda

FREE Ms Bernadette Banda NOW!

April 13, 2011

The United South Sudan Party (USSP) General Secretariat condemns the politically-motivated arrest of Ms Bernadette Banda which took place on 12th April 2011 in the hands of the security authorities in the town of Nzara. Ms Banda is a prominent member of USSP in Nzara, Western Equatoria State. She was arrested immediately following a political rally addressed by Mr Clement J. Mbugoniwia, the Party Leader, where he updated the party grassroots and the people of Nzara Town on the current political situation as South Sudan moves towards independence in less than three months’ time.

The USSP leadership vows to do everything in its capacity to see to it that Ms Banda is immediately set free with a clear reassurance that her political and human rights are never to be infringed upon again. For these very reasons we would like to call upon the Human Rights Watch (HRW) to assist us in bringing an end to Ms Banda’s ordeal as she is a prisoner of conscience and not a criminal. The fact that there is an attempt to silence her by putting her behind bars — a malicious move in line with the perceived trend to the obstruction of democratic transformation, freedom of expression and the respect for human rights in this region — sounds an alarm.

We look towards the friends of South Sudan in the different organisations representing the international community in Juba, Yambio and other parts of South Sudan to take a stand on this issue for a quick and safe release of a lady who, as a citizen, is entitled to her political opinion and beliefs.

While we will continue to fight against any dubious moves at all levels aimed at the intimidation of our members and supporters from exercising their rights to gatherings, free speech and association, we would also like to appeal to all the government institutions in South Sudan at all levels to uphold the principles of human rights as enshrined in the International Conventions.

Dr Justin Ambago Ramba
Secretary General,
United South Sudan Party (USSP)