Western governments criticized a new security bill in South Sudan, stating it would undermine civil and political freedoms before the country’s elections.
The bill allows detention without warrants and has sparked international concern.
The bill, passed on July 3, threatens peace talks and raises fears of arbitrary arrests before South Sudan’s first elections on December 22.
President Salva Kiir has 30 days to approve or veto the law.
Nine Western envoys, including from the U.S. and Britain, warned the bill’s signing would hinder open political space necessary for peaceful and genuine elections in South Sudan, urging a reconsideration.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller emphasized the need for the South Sudanese transitional government to create an environment for free expression without fear, saying the law would degrade political and civic space.
The U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan urged amendments to the bill, citing systematic abuses by security agencies.
Commissioner Yasmin Sooka called for protection of civil and political rights as South Sudan prepares for its first elections since independence.
