Speaker Calls for Immediate Ceasefire Amid Escalating Violence in Western Equatoria

Jemma Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, has issued a powerful plea for an urgent cessation of violence in Tambura County, Western Equatoria. Addressing reporters in Jubon on Friday, Nunu expressed grave concern regarding the increasing communal unrest, which has displaced over 50,000 individuals and resulted in numerous casualties in the county.

“I vehemently denounce the deplorable attacks on civilians, including targeted assassination attempts on individuals such as three local chiefs and youth leaders, some of whom have sustained injuries,” Nunu declared. “Such assaults are intolerable, inflicting immense suffering on our people and undermining peaceful coexistence in Tambura.”

Nunu described the situation in Tambura as characterized by killings, abductions, disappearances, and property damage. She urged authorities to conduct thorough investigations into the killings and hold the perpetrators accountable. Moreover, Nunu appealed to the kidnappers to release the Catholic priest, his driver, and other civilians held captive.

“I call upon relevant authorities and peace partners to condemn this violence and promptly take appropriate actions to safeguard innocent lives. It is imperative for the authorities to conduct a comprehensive inquiry and ensure that the responsible individuals are brought to justice. Furthermore, I urge the state government to escalate their efforts and fulfill their obligation to protect lives and property, thereby restoring security in the region. I implore the state authorities to immediately halt these atrocious attacks and secure the release of the abducted Catholic priest, Fr. Luke, his driver, and other civilians held captive by the assailants,” Nunu emphasized.

She underscored the urgency for concerned authorities to take immediate steps to protect civilians and restore peace and stability.

Nunu emphasized that the conflict has led to the displacement of over 50,000 individuals, constituting approximately 80 percent of the population. “The ongoing assaults on innocent civilians in Tambura County have worsened an already dire humanitarian situation, with over 50,000 people forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in churches, schools, and the UNMISS temporary base in Tambura town. Therefore, I appeal to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission to mobilize humanitarian organizations to provide prompt and unrestricted assistance to displaced victims affected by the crisis,” she urged.

Why This Matters: Jemma Nunu Kumba's call for an immediate halt to violence in Tambura County, Western Equatoria, highlights a critical need to address escalating communal conflicts that threaten lives, stability, and peaceful coexistence in the region.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 50,000 individuals, comprising 80% of the population, have been displaced by the violence, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
• The violence includes targeted assassinations of local leaders and civilians, leading to injuries and loss of life, indicating a deliberate effort to destabilize the community.
• Nunu emphasises the importance of thorough investigations and holding perpetrators accountable to ensure justice for victims and prevent further violence.
• There's a plea for intensified efforts by authorities to protect civilians, restore security, and secure the release of hostages, particularly the abducted Catholic priest and others held captive.
• Immediate mobilization of humanitarian aid is crucial to provide timely assistance to displaced victims and alleviate their suffering amidst the crisis.