Recent political appointments made by Salva Kiir Mayardit in South Sudan have caused profound fear

Profound fear grows due to the appointment made by Salva Kiir

among communities who believe that some individuals appointed to and selected for power have a history of violence, negative attitudes, repression, or involvement in forced displacement.

These concerns are not abstracts, they are real ones and they cannot be ignored. South Sudanese communities report patterns of abuse linked to past actions of certain appointees, including intimidation, targeting of civilians, and the destruction of livelihoods.

When individuals such as Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, Nyanath Elijah Yong Kier and their likes are elevated to positions of authority, it sends a dangerous signal: that impunity is tolerated and that the safety of ordinary people is secondary to political loyalty.

A responsible government that has checks and balances must ensure that appointments are based on integrity, respect for human rights, and a proven commitment to protecting civilians, not harming them.

South Sudanese communities across the country are not asking for revenge. They are asking for protection, dignity, and accountability. Peace cannot be built by empowering those associated with violence against their own people.

It can only be achieved through transparent leadership, equal justice, and respect for human life.

By Justice Gatwech Wal Melbourne, Australia