One World Concert artist Emmanuel Jal was beaten and robbed Saturday in Juba, South Sudan in an incident of unprovoked police brutality.

One World concert producers are aware of the situation but said Jal is planning to perform as scheduled, Erin Kane, associate vice chancellor of public relations said in an email.

The South Sudanese rapper and peace activist was promoting International Peace Day in Juba and was scheduled to perform at the “We Want Peace” Business Gala and concert on Sept. 20 and 21, according to a Sept. 10 Rolling Stone article.

Jal was stopped by police around 9:30 p.m. The five officers took his cell phone and beat him until he lost consciousness while 15 police and national security officers watched without intervening, according to the article.

Despite the incident, Jal is still promoting peace.

“This is an ironic and sad situation that will not deter my path for freedom, equality and justice. I am swollen, but recovering, and thank all the fans and supporters for their well wishes,” Jal said in a statement. “I would like to express that abuse of power should not be tolerated on any level. South Sudan must move forward with positivity and equality.”

Jal said he chose to address the incident publicly because speaking out against injustice is a route to peace.

Said Jal: “Let us continue to put a spotlight on such dark issues, for it is the best solution in paving a way for our bright future.”

Published on September 11, 2012 at 2:05 am

Contact Jessica: jliannet@syr.edu | @JessicaIannetta