12/11/2025
Comedian arrested in Juba after alleged insult against President Kiir
A comedian has been arrested in Juba, after allegedly insulting President Salva Kiir during a live TikTok broadcast, according to family members.
The 33-year-old, identified as Amath Jok, was reportedly detained by men wearing National Security Service (NSS) uniforms while returning home from a salon in the Thongpiny neighbourhood. Her family told the media that her whereabouts remain unknown since the arrest.
Jok’s Monday livestream was in response to social media criticism targeting Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, who was appointed by President Kiir in February 2025. Defending Mel, Jok allegedly referred to Kiir as “a big thief wearing a hat,” remarks that quickly went viral and drew widespread debate about freedom of expression in South Sudan.
Her relatives have appealed to authorities to release her, saying she acted out of emotion. “Everybody can make a mistake,” said her cousin, Dhong Bang.
Authorities have not commented on Jok’s arrest.