16/03/2025
Investigation into the Death of Journalist Agei Faces Delays, Renewed Mandate Sought
The investigation into the tragic death of journalist Marko Agei Makoor Chol, who was ambushed and killed on 1st July 2020 in Tit-Magak village, Tonj South County, continues to face significant delays.
Initially, in 2023, the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) Warrap State branch petitioned for justice, prompting the then Governor Kuol Muor Muor to form a five-member committee on 30th May 2024 to investigate the circumstances of the murder.
The committee was given a 30-day deadline to report their findings to the Governor. However, multiple setbacks hindered progress, including the Governor’s illness and travel abroad, logistical challenges, and his subsequent removal from office, which stalled the investigation.
UJOSS continued advocating for the investigation's progress under the new leadership of Governor Francis Marial Abur Bol. As a result, on 10th February 2025, Governor Marial restructured the committee, expanding it to seven members. The new committee is headed by the Minister of Information, James Ayiek Bath, with Tonj South County Commissioner Ring Deng Ading serving as his deputy to enhance the committee's capacity.
Despite these efforts, further delays occurred due to logistical challenges and the removal of Governor Marial from office just a few weeks after the committee was formed. Although UJOSS leaders in Juba have expressed full support for this process, the frequent changes in state leadership have caused repeated halts to the investigation.
Currently, the committee, empowered by the first Gubernatorial Order No. 118/2024 and the second Gubernatorial Order No. 79/2025, is requesting a renewal of its mandate under Governor Magok Magok Deng Rong, along with the necessary resources to implement the orders and expedite the investigation.
The committee aims to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding Marko Agei’s death, ensuring justice for his family and the community.
UJOSS is ready to support by facilitating its members' involved in the committee and providing whatever resources are available to ensure the success of this investigation.