JONGLEI – “Regardless of the mistakes a person may make or the crimes they commit, they should always be recognized as human beings deserving of compassion and understanding.”
This compelling message from UN Police Officer, Mwewa Musonda, captured the spirit of the training provided by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan to strengthen the capacity of local prison officers to pursue justice in line with international standards, including human rights law.
He started the session with the 30 participants from the South Sudan National Prison Services with a challenging question.
“How would you want to be treated if you were a suspect?”
This underlines the reality that anyone can find themselves in custody, whether innocent or guilty of a crime. It also reminds of the importance of humane treatment through legal processes, as per the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Nelson Mandela Rules.
These guidelines ensure that detainees are treated with dignity, receive adequate food, clean water, and medical care, and are protected from torture.
“Punishment must remain lawful and proportionate,” shared Lieutenant Manjok Chiman Atem during the training.
Prison Officer, Philip Leek, noted that the training reinforced both prisoner rights and staff responsibilities, fostering a balanced rights-based approach to corrections.
"Initiatives like this play a vital role in changing mindsets and improving practices in law enforcement.”
This activity aims to turn detention facilities into spaces that uphold human rights and accountability, aligning with UNMISS’s mission to protect civilians, strengthen the justice sector, and promote sustainable governance in South Sudan.
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By Mach Samuel
