March 22, 2021(Nyamilepedia) — The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on Major General Moses Lokujo for his alleged role in serious human rights violations, particularly arbitrary executions and killings in Kajo-Keji areas following his defection from the SPLA-IO last year, 2020.
Major General Gabriel Moses Lokujo who defected from the SPLM-IO to South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) was accused of directing the abduction and execution of three SPLA-IO officers in May 2020.
The European Union further alleged that Maj. Gen. Lokujo is responsible for the ensuing clashes in and around the Moroto Training Center in Central Equatoria State.
According to the European Union Statement, the clashes resulted in several deaths and injuries in the last quarter of 2020.
“As a consequence, several deaths and injuries were reported on both sides during the last quarter of 2020, and civilians were also displaced, especially in the Kajo-Keji area of Central Equatoria State.” Read part of the statement.
“Major General Lokujo’s forces remained in the area where several further clashes have been reported and the safety and security of the civilian communities continue to be in jeopardy,” the statement further added.
The statement further narrates that the EU “remains committed to assist the South Sudanese people to fulfil their aspiration for peace and prosperity and to build a stable and democratic South Sudan.”
“The restrictive measure taken by the EU is meant to protect the interests of South Sudan and to defend the human rights of the South Sudanese people. This sanction is targeting an individual who has violated the rights of his/her fellow South Sudanese,” it added.
It further said that the restrictive measures against individuals violating human rights have to be seen as a signal against impunity, also as a signal of the EU commitment to defend human rights, to stand with human rights defenders and to fight impunity.
Maj. Gen. Moses Lokujo Gabriel is the latest South Sudanese army official to be sanctioned by the European Union.
In February 2018, the EU sanctioned former military chief of Staff, Gen. Paul Malong, former deputy chief of staff, Gen. Malek Reuben Riak and Information Minister, Hon. Michael Makuei Lueth, for their alleged roles in serious human rights violations and obstructions of the political process.
