By Deng Ghai Deng
George Ruot, a journalist and former Program Coordinator for the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), was released on bail Monday evening after being arrested at the Juba Town Police Station.
He was detained after a defamation suit was filed against him by UJOSS.
Ruot, known for his outspoken criticism of UJOSS leadership, confirmed his release in an interview with this publication.
“I was released on bail last evening and this morning I returned to the police station but was told to go and wait for a call. I don’t know when they are forwarding the case to court,” Ruot stated.
The defamation suit arises from allegations Ruot made against UJOSS leadership, including accusations of corruption, mismanagement of funds, altering the union’s constitution, and failing to convene a general assembly. UJOSS has refuted these claims.
UJOSS President Patrick Oyet addressed the situation, emphasizing that while Ruot’s bail release is within his rights, the case remains unresolved.
“The case has been opened; he was arrested on Monday and later released on bail, which is his right. However, if Ruot continues to make disparaging comments, the case will proceed to court,” Oyet said.
Oyet also accused Ruot of reaching out to UJOSS donors to halt their funding, further complicating the dispute.