The Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, Santo Loku Pio, a prominent and vocal figure in the Catholic Church in South Sudan has called for the immediate release of Former Juba City Mayor Kalisto Lodu or his arraignment in court in the event he has a case to answer.

In an exclusive interview with Radio Tamazuj, the clergyman sheds light on the circumstances surrounding Lodu’s incarceration, the lackluster preparations for the elections, the prevailing fragile political and economic environment, the human rights situation, the need for justice and freedom of expression, and the role of the church in advocating for democratic principles among others.

Below are edited excerpts:

Question: Bishop Santo, can you provide any information about Kalisto’s current whereabouts to the public?

Answer: Our investigation has revealed that Kalisto is being held in what is known as the Blue House by the National Security Service in Juba City. He is living in difficult conditions and is prohibited from communicating with anyone, including his own family.

Q: How do you suggest the government handles Kalisto's case?

A: We have previously demanded Kalisto’s release or if he is accused of a crime, he should be given a fair trial. How he was arrested was not lawful and was more like an arbitrary seizure than a proper legal procedure. People were unaware of his location until after extensive search efforts. This approach is unacceptable and any administrative or legal issues must be handled through proper legal procedures that respect his rights as a human being.

Since Kalisto is detained in the Blue House, which is under government oversight, he should be granted his legal rights. I urge the government to either provide him with a fair trial or release him. It is important to note that there have been reports of violations of his rights, including physical assault, according to sources within National Security who have expressed their disapproval of such treatment. Additionally, authorities have prevented his wife from visiting him.

Q: What specific demands do you have as a leader within the church?

A: As I mentioned earlier, it is imperative that if Kalisto faces accusations, he receives a fair trial, or else he should be released.

The unjust detention he is experiencing has inflicted significant psychological trauma on his young family. Moreover, as the primary provider for his household, his inability to pay rent during this period has placed them in a precarious situation, with the landlord pressuring them. Consequently, there have been calls for support to assist the family.

Overall, considering Kalisto’s years of service to the state, regardless of the alleged crime, he deserves fair treatment that deviates from his current circumstances.

Q: There have been rumors that the National Security Service plans to arrest you too. Is there truth in this?

A: I have heard these rumors but no one has directly approached me. Additionally, there are reports of security forces infiltrating the church, with certain clergy members collaborating behind the scenes. They often challenge my statements, suggesting that they are under pressure. Whenever someone speaks to me or objects to my views, I suspect they may be acting on behalf of the security apparatus.

However, despite indirect warnings, no one has directly confronted me. Instead, some individuals have subtly cautioned me to be careful, implying concerns about my actions. Despite their efforts, they have not engaged me directly but voiced implicit messages to convey their desire for me to change my approach.

Q: How did you respond to these conversations?

A: I have not taken any significant action. However, I remain present and open to engaging with anyone who wishes to discuss these matters. Given my advocacy for human rights, which are inherent to individuals as beings honored by God with both spirit and body, it is essential to emphasize the need for laws that uphold these rights. If our Lord has ordained such laws and established judgments for those who stumble, then what about human judgment?

Therefore, it is crucial to consider and promote the importance of laws and fair judgments which can bring even the guilty a sense of justice. However, the adoption of practices such as abduction, assault, and nighttime arrests without disclosing detention locations by the security apparatus is, in my view, akin to robbery and terrorism.

These unjust practices only deepen our dissatisfaction with the state's apparatus. It is widely recognized that security agencies should engage with individuals formally, providing explanations for arrest and adhering to established legal procedures, including trial in court. Unfortunately, what often occurs is arbitrary nighttime arrests and treatment akin to animals, which runs counter to the principles of justice and due process.

Q: There is talk about holding elections in South Sudan in December 2024. Given the current situation in the country, do you believe this is feasible?

A: Firstly, I want to stress the importance of elections. However, the current environment is not conducive. While there are discussions about budget allocation for elections, the reality on the ground is highly complex. Many citizens are refugees and others are internally displaced, scattered across the country.

Additionally, the security situation is precarious and marked by arbitrary arrests by the National Security Service and there is limited freedom of expression.

Currently, politicians cannot freely articulate their programs or discuss their plans if elected. Moreover, South Sudan’s economy is in severe decline. Various indicators suggest that holding elections under these circumstances would be disastrous, leading to numerous challenges. Many voters might be disenfranchised due to difficulties accessing polling stations. If elections were held now, they would likely be superficial, with predetermined outcomes to create an illusion of legitimacy.

There would be little competition among elected officials due to constraints on freedom of expression, hindering the effective participation of political parties. Furthermore, elections would occur under coercion, with voters apprehensive about exercising their rights due to potential repercussions like imprisonment. All of these undermine the state’s constitution.

While elections are crucial for navigating transitional periods, the right conditions and genuine intent must be in place. South Sudan urgently needs a responsible government and the absence of elected leadership has contributed to its decline. It is worth noting that the current government was appointed by decree. This highlights the necessity for democratic processes to restore stability and progress.

Q: We have noticed a rise in insecurity, especially in areas like Jonglei, Pibor, and the Abyei, resulting in heightened violence and loss of life. Do you think this could negatively affect the planned elections?

A: The current security challenges stem from actions by government agencies rather than being inherent to the situation itself. It appears that some politicians are actively obstructing the electoral process by fomenting unrest across the country to limit elections to specific areas.

It is important to recognize that these events are not random but orchestrated and planned. Therefore, addressing the deterioration of security must be a priority before discussing elections. Historically, political discord has been a significant factor in the country’s problems. Hence, genuine efforts by the government are needed to halt the decline in security before elections can be considered.

Q: What role is the Church playing in the election process?

A: The Church advocates for the fundamental rights to freedom, starting with freedom of expression which allows citizens to voice their concerns. However, the government restricts this right to avoid scrutiny of its actions.

Since independence, the people have endured significant suffering, indicating a need for progress. It is crucial to avoid violence and instead engage in a national dialogue to address past mistakes, rectify them, and move forward.

Q: Some government officials have accused you of deterring people from seeking solace in the Church due to your tough stance on societal and topical issues. What is your response to this?

A: My discourse aligns with gospel teachings which address societal issues like adultery, theft, and injustice. Those who fear such discussions likely engage in these taboo practices. The Church is not about flattery or entertainment but serves as a place for healing, reflection, and worship. Its teachings are absolute truths which some may find uncomfortable. Those unwilling to embrace the truth may not genuinely seek the Church’s guidance.

Q: What message would you like to convey to the transitional government regarding holding elections and safeguarding freedom of expression?

A: I urge the government to handle matters calmly and allow freedom of expression for political parties and individuals. The people must be free to choose their leaders and participate in governance. Arbitrary arrests and threats by the National Security apparatus undermine democratic values and must cease.

The government should create an environment conducive to elections, enabling politicians to campaign freely and ensuring citizens’ rights to choose their representatives.

Q: Do you support holding elections this year?

A: Yes! I support holding elections if the government refrains from harassing citizens and allows political parties to operate freely. However, given current government practices, holding elections may be disrupted.

Q: Do you plan to visit Kalisto in the Blue House?

A: Visiting Kalisto may be challenging due to restrictions imposed by the National Security apparatus. They have blocked his wife from meeting him. However, if approved, I would not hesitate to visit him.