In a message posted on her Facebook’s page, Dean read out her prepared script.
“Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about Peter Biar Ajak, a husband, father, and renowned peace activist unlawfully detained in South Sudan. In July of 2018, Peter was arrested by South Sudan security forces. He has been held without charge or trial ever since, and has frequently been denied access to his family, counsel, medical care, and adequate food.”
Peter Biar Ajak was one of the lostboys of Sudan and went to the United States of America. After he completed his studies, Biar went back to help in South Sudan, and he worked with various agencies including the World Bank.
“Peter was one of Sudan's Lost Boys who resettled to Philadelphia and attended La Salle University where I taught for 10 years. I knew Peter as a brilliant student and leader. He later went on to Harvard and Cambridge.”
Biar cofounded the South Sudan Young Leaders Forum that brought together many youths across South Sudanese tribes and communities.
“He is a dedicated peace activist, who co-founded South Sudan Young Leaders Forum. In his work, he has criticized South Sudan's leaders for failing to secure permanent peace for their people. Incredibly, Peter is now under investigation for crimes, including treason and terrorism. If charged and convicted, Peter could be sentenced to death. In reality, he is being persecuted for speech. I call on President Kiir to release Peter and all political prisoners in South Sudan.”
