The directive, issued on April 20 by County Commissioner Samuel Ateny Pech Ariik, prohibits both the production and consumption of alcohol throughout the county.
The order cites rising crime linked to widespread local brewing as the basis for the sweeping measure.
According to Pech, individuals found violating the order would face arrest, trial before a “C Court,” and a minimum six-month prison sentence without bail. It also directs local administrators, chiefs, and security organs to enforce compliance by reporting offenders.
While the move has been welcomed by some residents as a necessary intervention to curb alcohol-related crime, civil society groups have raised concerns about its legality and implementation.
Bol Deng Bol, Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan and Chairperson of the Jonglei Civil Society Network, said the order addresses a real social problem but risks undermining the rule of law.
“Alcohol abuse, particularly local brews, has contributed to insecurity in Bor, and it needs to be addressed beyond a simple directive,” Bol said. “However, the manner in which this order is to be implemented raises legal and procedural concerns.”
He argued that the commissioner does not have the authority to deny bail or impose a fixed prison term, noting that sentencing decisions fall under the jurisdiction of the courts and should be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Bol also criticised the lack of clarity in the order, questioning whether the ban applies only to traditional brews or extends to commercially produced alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits.
“This ambiguity creates confusion for both law enforcement and the public,” he said. “If the ban includes conventional alcohol, businesses should be given a reasonable grace period of at least three months to adjust.”
He further emphasised the need for public awareness before enforcement begins, warning that many residents remain uninformed about the directive.
“Immediate enforcement without adequate sensitisation would be unfair,” Bol added. “We are ready to work with authorities and the media to educate the public on the dangers of substance abuse.”
He cautioned that civil society organisations are closely monitoring the situation and may pursue legal action if the order is enforced in ways that contravene South Sudan’s legal framework.
