Justice Minister’s Order Sparks Debate
On Wednesday, South Sudan’s Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech Geng lifted a seven-month closure on Freedom Hotel and approved bail for its owner and staff, citing lack of legal grounds for continued detention or business shutdown.
Forensic Results and Bail Timeline
According to a ministerial memo, investigators received Nairobi-based forensic results in June 2025, confirming that three sisters from one family died in room 21 on 28 March. The minister said investigations had formally closed that month.
Defense attorneys then made several unsuccessful bail bids before the Director of Public Prosecutions finally granted release, only to see the decision reversed by an acting undersecretary, prompting Wednesday’s intervention.
Family Lawyer Alleges Evidence Gaps
Advocate Josephine Adhet Deng, representing the Arol family, argued that key evidence, including fragments of the hotel’s air-conditioning system, remains unexamined and that some possible accomplices have not yet been questioned.
“Releasing prime suspects during an incomplete homicide inquiry undermines justice,” she told local media, insisting the Penal Code section invoked renders the offence legally non-bailable.
Father Recounts Distressing Discovery
Grief-stricken father Chol Arol recalled arriving at Freedom Hotel after dawn, unlocking room 21 with management, and finding daughters Achol, Achol, and Abeny lying motionless. He said a medical report pointed to toxic chemicals released through the air-conditioning unit.
Next Judicial Steps and Public Confidence
The minister instructed prosecutors to transfer Case 2174/2025 to a trial court “without further delay,” while ordering room 21 to stay sealed. Civil society groups say swift hearings are crucial to restore public confidence in the justice system.