Human Rights Commissioner in South Sudan, Carlos Castresana, during a press conference in Juba, on 10^th September 2026 Photo; Awuou Michael  

By Awuou Michael

The United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan is calling for prompt, independent and impartial investigations into reported killings, burial sites and possible mass graves in Jonglei State.

Human Rights Commissioner Carlos Castresana made the call on Thursday during a press conference in Juba, saying allegations of serious violations must be properly investigated and perpetrators held accountable.

Carlos said the Commission’s investigations over the past decade have documented recurring human rights abuses, including killings, displacement, sexual violence, child recruitment and arbitrary detention.

“Documenting violations is not enough. Justice and accountability are essential to preventing further abuses and building sustainable peace.”

The Commissioner urged authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported burial sites and possible mass graves in Jonglei.

“There must be prompt, independent and impartial investigations into these allegations, and anyone found responsible must be held accountable.”

Carlos also linked the persistence of violence to widespread impunity and what he described as the capture of state institutions by political and other elites.

“Widespread impunity continues to fuel violence and undermine efforts to strengthen the rule of law.”

He said weaknesses in the justice system, including inadequate resources and concerns over judicial independence, can allow alleged perpetrators to evade accountability.

The Commission is therefore calling for stronger judicial independence, impartial criminal investigations and due process.

It is also urging authorities to establish the three transitional justice mechanisms — the Truth Commission, Compensation and Reparations Authority, and the Hybrid Court for South Sudan.

Carlos said the Hybrid Court should be established without further delay.

“The Hybrid Court for South Sudan should be established without further delay, while the other transitional justice mechanisms must operate through transparent, inclusive and protected processes.”

The Commission says accountability for past and ongoing violations remains critical to breaking the cycle of violence, strengthening the rule of law and building sustainable peace in South Sudan.