South Sudan Minister Indicates Low Likelihood of Journalist’s Death Investigation

South Sudan’s government is unlikely to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the 2017 murder of journalist Christopher Allen. Despite concerns raised in the UK House of Lords, officials remain pessimistic about the effectiveness of any new inquiries. The case highlights ongoing issues of journalist safety and impunity in South Sudan, with steps being taken to strengthen support for British citizens abroad.

A senior South Sudanese minister has indicated that the likelihood of a thorough investigation into the death of British journalist Christopher Allen is slim. Allen, a dual UK-US citizen, was tragically killed in South Sudan in 2017 while reporting on the ongoing conflict. To complicate matters, his body was reportedly disfigured, and graphic images were circulated online. Previous attempts at investigation were criticized by international observers as ineffective and lacking credibility. During discussions in the House of Lords, Lord Black highlighted the brutal circumstances surrounding Allen’s murder, emphasizing that no one has yet been held accountable. He expressed concern regarding the broader issue of journalist safety, pointing out that a significant number of global journalist murders remain unresolved. Lady Chapman, representing the Foreign Office, acknowledged the shortcomings of the previous investigation, though she expressed little hope for a new, credible inquiry. She noted that the government consistently urges South Sudan to acknowledge its responsibility for journalist safety and to end impunity for such crimes. In a recent development, an investigative committee was established in 2023, culminating in a report released in March 2024, although its effectiveness is yet to be determined. The UK government is exploring ways to enhance protections for British nationals abroad, particularly in the context of human rights violations. The plight of Christopher Allen remains a significant point of concern, both for his family and for the global journalistic community.

The death of Christopher Allen in South Sudan is emblematic of the dangers faced by journalists covering conflict zones. His murder by government troops in 2017 has raised serious questions regarding the accountability of state authorities in protecting media personnel. Previous investigations have failed to yield satisfactory justice, leading to widespread condemnation from press freedom advocates and human rights organizations. The ongoing discussions in the UK government highlight the complex dynamics involved in addressing the safety of journalists operating in volatile regions, particularly in the context of South Sudan’s political climate.

In summary, the likelihood of a credible investigation into Christopher Allen’s death appears minimal, as indicated by officials from both South Sudan and the UK Foreign Office. Despite recent efforts to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident, skepticism remains regarding their effectiveness. Furthermore, the broader issue of impunity for crimes against journalists continues to pose a serious threat, necessitating ongoing international pressure to enhance protections and accountability.

Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk