South Sudan recorded over 300 rape cases in 2021-report
South Sudan posted approximately 330 cases of rape, physical violence, and gender-based violence.
The revelation came up on Friday during a two-day training to seek justice for women’s and children’s rights, gender-sensitive police response and reforms. The event was organised by the South Sudan Law Society with support from GIZ.
According to George Maluoc, who is a public prosecutor in Juba, South Sudan must take a comprehensive approach to gender-based violence (GBV) cases.
“We need holistic approaches in the fight against gender-based violence cases, which are rampant in our society today. Such training should also be extended to police officers and prosecutors all over South Sudan, “said Maluoc.
The rising cases have been attributed to poverty, alcoholism, abuse of power, corruption, susceptibility, and others.
Counsel Gasper Amule said female police officers are critical in dealing with GBV cases.
“Female officers are particularly important in interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects, especially women and children. The ability for a victim or survivor to speak to a person of their own gender will ensure the best evidence is obtained and victims are supported, “he said.
Adriana Tsungu, a police officer present at the workshop, issued a warning to law enforcement about extortionist tendencies.
“Police officers should protect civilians, but not extort money from the public,” he said.
Understanding South Sudan’s legal frameworks on women’s rights, child rights, gender-based violence, victim protection, restorative justice, and security sector reforms under Chapter II of the September 2018 revitalised peace agreement were among the topics covered.
According to Oliver Taban of the South Sudan Law Society, restorative justice allows victims or communities impacted by crime to explain how crime has harmed them.
“One of the aims of restorative justice is to promote reconciliation between child and victim or community affected by the harm caused,” he remarked.
Joseph Sebit said such training strengthens the police on procedural requirements.
