Custody Death Raises Family Doubts
Capt. Luka Gathok Nyuon, aged in his forties, was buried at Jebel Cemetery after authorities released his body to relatives.
Military doctors attributed the September 18 death to a stomach complication, yet the family questions the impartiality of the in-house autopsy.
Competing Narratives From Ex-Detainees
Former cellmates who gained release attended the funeral and told mourners that Nyuon collapsed after weeks of untreated illness and scant food at Jamus detention centre.
One ex-detainee said, ‘He grew weaker daily; we often shared our rations with him,’ adding that medical requests were ignored.
Legal Options and Search for Justice
Relatives state their immediate priority was a dignified burial; the next step is consulting lawyers on possible civil or criminal action.
Human rights advocates in Juba argue that an independent coroner could test official findings and calm public suspicion.
Political Backdrop in Turbulent South Sudan
Nyuon’s arrest in March followed the house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, long-time rival to President Salva Kiir.
Machar now faces a special court over March 2025 violence in Nasir, while Juba experiences renewed security jitters.
Authorities have issued no public comment on Nyuon, yet diplomats note that transparent handling could ease tensions ahead of anticipated elections.