Launched on 15 April, the mobile court was a joint initiative by the Unity State Government, the Judiciary of South Sudan, and the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, with logistical and operational support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). During its deployment, the court handled 57 criminal and civil cases, including murder, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and forced or early marriages.
Out of the 32 criminal cases heard, 28 resulted in convictions, while 11 individuals were either acquitted or had their cases dismissed. Importantly, nine people who had been wrongfully imprisoned were released, reaffirming the court’s role in upholding fair justice standards.
Among the most notable outcomes were the eight SGBV cases that led to eight successful convictions. Five of those found guilty were members of South Sudan’s security forces, sending a clear message that no one is above the law when it comes to gender-based crimes and violence.
Beyond SGBV, the mobile court also resolved cases involving murder and serious assault, bringing long-awaited justice to victims and their families. These decisions have restored hope in legal processes among residents of Leer County and neighboring regions.
Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (DSRSG) for UNMISS, praised the initiative. “Through the Leer mobile court, the government and judiciary have enabled marginalized groups—especially women, children, and the poor—to access justice. These efforts are critical in ending cycles of violence and laying the foundation for long-term peace,” he said.
Funded by the Multi-Partner Trust Fund for Reconciliation, Stabilization and Resilience (RSRTF) and the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Juba, the mobile court is part of a wider justice initiative in Unity State. Since February 2024, mobile courts in Koch, Mayom, Bentiu, and Leer have ruled on 314 cases, supported by newly trained investigators and prosecutors. The success in Leer is expected to inspire similar efforts across South Sudan.
