Mobile Court Boosts Access to Justice in Greater Pibor

(PIBOR) – The second session of the mobile court in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area has so far handled 15 cases, including 10 civil and 5 criminal matters, according to local authorities. The initiative, which began on 3 July and is scheduled to continue until 31 July, aims to bring legal services closer to communities in remote areas.

In addition to the cases already heard, another 18 are still under investigation by police, including serious offences such as murder and rape. Officials say these cases are being handled carefully and will be brought before the court once investigations are complete.

Kucwaow Raphal Bwogo Amum, the Permanent Legal Adviser for Greater Pibor, described the mobile court as a major development in improving access to justice. He said its presence is encouraging people to seek lawful means of resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence or community based retribution.

“Before, the legal situation was very poor,” said Amum. “But the presence of the mobile court has significantly reduced cases and encouraged lawful resolution of disputes.”

The mobile court, which operates with support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), brings judges and legal staff directly to communities that lack permanent judicial structures. The court hears civil disputes and criminal cases, helping to close the gap in legal services in hard to reach areas.

Legal experts say the mobile court is not only helping to deliver justice in the short term but also strengthening public trust in the rule of law. In areas like Pibor, which have suffered from insecurity and a weak legal system, the mobile court is viewed as a critical tool in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Summary of Court Activity (as of mid July 2025)