South Sudan is unlikely to pursue a thorough investigation into the 2017 death of journalist Christopher Allen, according to a government official. Allen was killed by government troops, and much discussion has followed regarding the inadequacy of the previous investigations. The UK Government continues to urge for accountability amid widespread impunity concerning journalist fatalities worldwide.
South Sudan is unlikely to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the death of British journalist Christopher Allen, as indicated by a government minister. Allen, a dual UK-US citizen, was tragically killed in 2017 by South Sudanese government troops while he was reporting on the ongoing conflict in the country. His remains were found mutilated, which led to the circulation of inhumane ‘trophy images’ online. Following a national inquiry into his death, international observers widely criticized the findings, labelling the investigation a mere whitewash. In recent discussions held in the House of Lords, Lord Black, deputy chairman of the Telegraph Group, pressed the UK Government to urge South Sudan to reopen the investigation. Baroness Chapman, the Foreign Office minister, expressed little hope that the South Sudanese authorities would cooperate. She stated, “I’m very sad that my optimism about getting another investigation that would be any more credible or shed any more light on what happened – I do not have a great deal of it.” She recognized the necessity for the family of Christopher Allen to receive answers regarding his death under such violent circumstances. Baroness Chapman reiterated the UK Government’s commitment to applying pressure on South Sudan for a thorough inquiry and to address the overarching issue of impunity for human rights violations.
The killing of Christopher Allen in South Sudan in 2017 sheds light on the dangerous conditions journalists face while reporting in conflict zones. The South Sudanese government’s involvement in Allen’s death and the subsequent inadequate investigation raise serious concerns about human rights and press freedom in the region. The UK Government’s response to this incident, including discussions in the House of Lords, reflects the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice for slain journalists worldwide, particularly amid alarming global statistics indicating that a significant majority of journalist killings remain unpunished.
The ongoing situation regarding Christopher Allen’s death highlights the serious issues of press freedom and governmental accountability in South Sudan. Despite international appeals for a credible investigation, the South Sudanese government appears reluctant to address its role in the journalist’s death. There remains a critical need for international advocacy to ensure accountability for human rights violations, particularly in countries marked by conflict and impunity against journalists.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
