South Sudan: UN condemns killing of UN staff member in Wau, calls for swift investigation

In a statement by his spokesperson, Secretary-General António Guterres condemned “in the strongest terms” the killing of Mr. Bol Rhoch Mayol Kuot, a South Sudanese national employed as a Language Assistant with UNMISS.

Mr. Guterres extended his deepest condolences to the staff member’s family and loved ones and reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to providing all possible support during this profoundly difficult time.

According to the statement, Mr. Kuot was forcibly detained on 15 December by security actors near Wau town in Western Bahr el Ghazal state and was subsequently killed by his captors. UNMISS received confirmation of his death earlier this week.

“We are devastated by the loss of our colleague,” Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge of UNMISS, said in a separate statement, describing Mr. Kuot as a dedicated member of the UN team committed to serving the people of South Sudan.

“Such killing of United Nations personnel is unacceptable. We call for an immediate and thorough investigation to determine the circumstances of his detention and death and to ensure justice for him and his family. The safety and security of UN staff must always be respected.”

Serving peace amid complex challenges

UNMISS was established in 2011, following South Sudan’s independence, with a mandate to protect civilians, monitor human rights, and support peacebuilding and reconciliation, working closely with communities, government institutions and civil society.

With more than 17,000 civilians, police and military personnel deployed across the country, UNMISS operates in some of the most challenging environments, where insecurity and intercommunal violence continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.

Despite these risks, the Mission remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, protection and accountability.

UNMISS has urged national and local authorities to conduct a prompt, transparent investigation and to bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with international and national laws.