Below is the full statement delivered by Puot Kang during his second appearance before the court, where he addressed the circumstances surrounding the Nasir Incident of March 3–4, 2025, his arrest, detention, and his role in efforts to de-escalate tensions in Upper Nile State.
Your Lordships,
At this point, I shall address the Nasir Incident and the context within which it occurred. It is important to note at the outset that approximately twenty (20) violent clashes have been recorded between youths from Nasir and Ulang counties on one side and the SSPDF forces stationed in Nasir on the other.
These incidents span from August 7, 2020, to March 3–4, 2025. The most recent of these events is what has come to be known as the Nasir Incident, which is the subject of this case.
Your Lordships,
I was arrested on March 4, 2025, at around 11:00 PM at my residence. My home was surrounded, and about ten (10) individuals entered the premises. One of the officers ordered me to accompany them.
When I asked them to identify themselves, I was told they were from the National Security Service (NSS). I inquired whether they had an arrest warrant, and they admitted they did not, but insisted I must go with them.
I was taken to the NSS Operations Department at the riverside, where I stayed briefly before being told to return home under escort. Upon arrival, a new order was issued via phone instructing that I be taken back.
At that time, Brigadier General Camilo Gatmai, my bodyguards, and relatives were present. Another team arrived and ordered that everyone at the residence be arrested, including individuals who had gathered to watch a football match.
In total, twelve (12) individuals, including a gateman, were taken to the riverside facility. The gateman was released the next morning, while others were released weeks later.
Brig. Gen. Camilo Gatmai and I were later transferred to the Blue House detention facility, where I was held under harsh conditions, including being forced to sleep on an improvised bed supported by jerrycans for seven (7) months, resulting in persistent back pain.
Our phones were confiscated, and passwords were obtained under coercion on March 5, 2025. No regard was given to my legal immunity as a sitting minister. When I raised this issue, I was told that the officers were acting on orders.
To date, no documentation has been presented showing that my immunity was lifted or that the President authorized my arrest. I was, in effect, taken arbitrarily.
Following my arrest, I later learned that my residence was raided and that ten vehicles were taken. It is alleged that one of my private bulletproof vehicles was seized and is currently in use by a senior military official.
This property belongs to my family and should not be subject to confiscation under any circumstances.
Your Lordships,
On March 25–26, 2025, I was interrogated at the Blue House. I was informed that my arrest was related to the Nasir Incident. Three documents were presented: the formation of an investigation committee, correspondence from Dr. Riek Machar regarding local committees, and a press statement from SPLM/A (IO).
I raised concerns regarding the legal basis of the investigation committee, given that the incident falls under the Permanent Ceasefire Agreement.
I also questioned why military personnel were part of a committee investigating a civilian. The responses I received did not adequately address these concerns.
Your Lordships,
I firmly believe my role during the Nasir Incident was constructive. Prior to the escalation, there were recommendations by the Joint Defence Board (JDB) to deploy Necessary Unified Forces to Nasir due to tensions between SSPDF forces and civilians.
I participated in discussions aimed at facilitating this deployment, including logistical support arrangements.
On February 20, 2025, I engaged with senior government officials to encourage a Presidency meeting to address rising tensions in the Sobat corridor. Efforts were made to ensure coordination between leadership and local authorities.
On March 1, 2025, further consultations were held involving the First Vice President, the Upper Nile Governor, and commissioners from Nasir and Ulang.
Agreements were reached to allow safe passage of barges and to encourage youths to return to their villages. I was present during these discussions.
By March 2, 2025, reports indicated that the youths had indeed begun returning to their homes. A broader Presidency meeting was scheduled for March 3, 2025, to address the situation comprehensively.
It is also important to note that previous clashes, except for the Nasir Incident, were investigated by CTSAMVM, whose findings can be consulted.
Your Lordships,
I respectfully submit that my actions were aimed at de-escalation and promoting peace. I stand before this Court to present the truth of these events and to seek justice under the law.
Presiding Judge James Alala Deng adjourned the trial until Friday, May 8, 2026, when Puot Kang is expected to continue his testimony before the court.
