Reports out of Juba claim that young men in South Sudan’s eastern Pibor region went on a shooting rampage, resulting in the deaths of 15 individuals, including a county commissioner. This incident occurred amidst a backdrop of increasing local conflict as the country prepares for a national election later this year.
South Sudan has been plagued by violence, with a civil war erupting shortly after gaining independence in 2011, leading to hundreds of thousands of deaths between 2013 and 2018. While a fragile peace has been maintained among the main factions since then, skirmishes persist between various armed groups.
Some observers speculate that the recent surge in killings may be linked to the upcoming election, which will see the selection of new leaders to replace the current transitional government. The attack took place on Tuesday as the commissioner of Boma County in Pibor was returning from a village visit.
Abraham Kelang, the information minister of Greater Pibor Administrative Area, confirmed the tragic incident, stating that the commissioner and his entourage were ambushed on their way back from Nyat village. The assailants, believed to be youths from the Anyuak community, also targeted the deputy army commander of Boma, government officials, and the commissioner’s bodyguards.
This is not the first time such violence has occurred in the region. The Anyuak youths were allegedly responsible for the killing of another county commissioner in Pibor last year, as well as a security official. Authorities in Pochalla County, predominantly inhabited by the Anyuak, have yet to provide a statement on the matter.
Boma County, predominantly home to the Murle ethnic group, has a history of conflict, especially with the Anyuak and other neighboring ethnic communities from Jonglei State. Many of these clashes are rooted in disputes over cattle rustling.
In late January and early February, over 150 individuals lost their lives in northern and western South Sudan as a result of clashes between rival factions. The United States, Britain, and Norway issued a joint statement on Tuesday urging South Sudan’s leaders to take immediate action to ensure a peaceful and legitimate election process.
With tensions on the rise and the election approaching, it is essential for authorities to address the root causes of violence in South Sudan. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calling for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflicts within the country.
As South Sudan grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, it is imperative for all stakeholders to work towards sustainable peace and security in the region. The upcoming election presents an opportunity for the country to take a decisive step towards stability and democratic governance.
Despite the challenges that lie ahead, there is hope that South Sudan can overcome its history of violence and division, paving the way for a brighter and more peaceful future for its people. The world is watching closely as the nation navigates this critical juncture in its history.
