The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on the United Arab Emirates to clarify the reasons for the arrest of South Sudanese political commentator Samuel Peter Oyay. Known for his critical views on corruption and elitism in South Sudan, Oyay's arrest has sparked international concern over press freedoms in the UAE.

CPJ Regional Director Sara Qudah criticized the UAE's actions, stating, “By arresting Samuel Peter Oyay without explanation, UAE authorities are once again showing that commentators and journalists face tremendous risks in a country where press freedom is severely restricted.”

Oyay was taken from his home in Dubai by six security personnel during an early morning raid, as reported by his wife, Vivian Johnson. The search lasted approximately two hours, during which Johnson’s phone was also confiscated. The lack of a clear justification for Oyay's arrest contravenes basic principles of fairness and the presumption of innocence, violating both local justice systems and international human rights standards, including Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The timing of Oyay's arrest correlates with his recent article criticizing the administration of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit. In his piece, Oyay condemned the government's governance structure, highlighting the reliance on external resources like oil revenues and foreign aid, which he argued bolster Kiir’s regime.

Furthermore, Oyay offered critical insights into the upcoming trial of South Sudanese Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, describing it as a strategic move by Kiir to consolidate power by appearing as a beacon of accountability, while simultaneously eliminating political rivals.

The arrest is perceived by many as indicative of a judicial system that is heavily influenced by political motives, further stifling freedom of speech and expression in the UAE. This incident adds to a growing list of concerns regarding the UAE’s treatment of political dissidents, including recent mass trials and the designation of political opponents as terrorists.

The international community, spearheaded by rights organizations like CPJ, continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the UAE to uphold its international obligations regarding fair trial and freedom of expression. The ultimate impact of Oyay’s arrest on journalistic freedom and political commentary within the UAE remains uncertain, as the world watches and waits for further developments.