South Sudanese whistleblower released after detention in South Sudan

South Sudanese whistleblower Athorbey Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit has returned to Nairobi, Kenya, after being detained for nearly two months. His family announced his return on August 8, noting that he is currently receiving medical treatment following a deterioration in his health during his captivity.

Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit, who also holds Kenyan citizenship, was abducted in early June by masked, armed individuals in Nairobi. He was subsequently transferred to South Sudan, a move Amnesty International described as “illegal.” While in South Sudan, he was reportedly held in a military center in Juba.

Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit had previously raised allegations regarding high-level corruption among the ruling elite in South Sudan. His family stated that no specific charges were communicated during his detention and that he had previously warned of threats to his life due to his whistleblowing activities. Amnesty International has called for an investigation into the circumstances of his abduction and transfer.