On September 26, 2025, Kondial FM, a Community Engagement Network (CEN)–run radio station, opened its airwaves to discuss a new initiative bringing justice closer to communities in Unity State. The mobile court, supported by UNMISS Rule of Law, is tasked with addressing 100 long-pending criminal cases of murder, rape, robbery, and domestic violence—cases that have weighed heavily on families and communities for years.
For Mrs. Matilda Robert, a victims’ defense lawyer, the mission is clear: give long-awaited justice to victims. “Our purpose is to deal with criminal cases that have been pending for many years. We already have 100 cases in Unity State main prison, and the court will be independent,” she assured listeners during the live broadcast from the humanitarian Logbase.
Robert encouraged community members, particularly women and youth, to come forward. “The mobile court is for you. Kindly speed up to register your cases. Women, bring your pending cases—this is your opportunity for justice,” she urged.
Captain John Malith Kuek, Unity State’s chief investigator, described the scale of the challenge: 94 of the cases involve revenge killings and murder. “These crimes were often settled in traditional courts through blood compensation with cattle, which allowed criminals to escape accountability. The mobile court will change that by applying South Sudan’s criminal laws,” he said.
The program also gave voice to citizens. Mary Nyadak Keah, a 49-year-old woman calling from Bentiu IDP camp, expressed gratitude for being part of the conversation. “I am very happy with Kondial FM for bringing the mobile court judges into the studio to share ideas with us. But I still doubt whether the court will remain independent and free from bribery,” she said.
For communities long denied justice, the arrival of the mobile court offers hope that crimes will no longer go unpunished. By creating a platform for dialogue, CEN, through Kondial FM, continues to play a vital role in bridging communities and the justice system.
