JUBA — The legal defense team for former Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel has filed a formal petition with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. They are demanding his immediate release or a fair trial. He has faced nearly four months of detention without charge.
In a criminal motion seen today, Saturday, March 7, 2026, the law firm Kiirdit & Co. Advocates argued that their client is being held in “total isolation.” This has been the case since his arrest on the night of November 12, 2025.
Key Allegations in the Petition
The petition outlines a series of alleged constitutional violations by state security agencies:
Illegal House Arrest: Bol Mel has been detained at his residence for approximately 120 days. He has not been presented before a competent court. He also has not been formally charged with any offense.
Denial of Basic Rights: The lawyers allege that the former Vice President has been held incommunicado. He has no access to his immediate family, legal counsel, or medical doctors.
Seizure of Property: Security agencies reportedly seized private properties, including houses and vehicles, without a court order or legal warrant.
Health Crisis: The legal team warns that Benjamin Bol is “seriously ill.” He has been denied adequate medical attention. They state that his life is now at risk.
The Legal Demand
Kiirdit & Co. is urging the Minister of Justice. As the government’s chief legal adviser, the Minister is requested to issue a binding legal opinion on the matter.
Show Cause: The government must explain why the detention continues without an active investigation or trial.
Access: Immediate visitation rights for family, lawyers, and physicians must be granted.
Due Process: If sufficient evidence exists linking Bol Mel to a crime, he must be produced in court. Otherwise, he must be released immediately.
The Context of the November Purge
Benjamin Bol Mel was once a powerful figure in both the presidency and the private sector. He served as the head of ARC Resources. However, he was swept up in the November 2025 security reshuffle.
The Charges (Unconfirmed): The government hasn’t filed formal charges. However, state-aligned media previously suggested his detention was linked to “high-level financial malpractices.” It also involved unauthorized political maneuvering during the mid-2025 economic crisis.
The Crackdown: His arrest coincided with the removal of several other top officials in the finance and security sectors. Many of these officials remain in detention alongside former Finance Minister Dr. Bak Barnaba Chol.