The eyes of 18-year-old Akuot Agany Kut were gouged by her father over alleged forced marriage. | Photo: Courtesy.

The Gender-Based Violence Court in Juba has found a father guilty of severe child abuse and aggravated assault after he gouged out his daughter’s eyes in 2023 when she refused an arranged marriage.

Akuot Agany was convicted under Section 238 of the South Sudan Penal Act 2008 and Section 22 of the Child Act 2008.

The verdict was delivered by Judge Abu Al-Qasim Al-Sadiq Subi on Wednesday after the court heard the accused’s statement through a Dinka Rek interpreter.

The case dates back to April 2023, when Agany was arrested following the attack on his daughter, identified only as Mary, who was 17 years old at the time.

The court heard that Agany attacked his daughter after she refused to marry a man he had selected for her.

Agany pleaded not guilty but told the court that he attacked his daughter after becoming angry over what he described as her repeated misconduct.

He said he had been frustrated with her behaviour since 2019 and committed the attack after drinking alcohol, claiming he wanted to teach her a lesson.

The accused also told the court that his daughter had previously run away with a man for about a week.

He said the man was arrested and sentenced to six years in prison, while five cows and other compensation were reportedly paid.

Section 238 of the South Sudan Penal Act 2008 provides for up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible fine for voluntarily causing grievous hurt using a dangerous weapon or means.

Section 22 of the Child Act 2008 protects children from physical and mental violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, abduction, trafficking and sexual abuse, with convictions carrying a sentence of up to 14 years’ imprisonment.

The court has adjourned the case to September 9 to hear evidence on Dinka customary law, including whether compensation paid by a father to his daughter is recognized under customary practice.

The case drew national outrage and condemnation from human rights activists and government officials.

Proceedings have faced prolonged delays after the defence challenged the handling and jurisdiction of the case.

The Court of Appeal previously allowed the use of a Dinka Rek interpreter but rejected a request to transfer the case to Warrap State.

The defence later appealed to the Supreme Court, where the matter remained pending for more than a year without a ruling.