South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Central Equatoria State government has called on armed groups active within it’s vicinity to end hostilities and engage in dialogue.
Gerald Francis, the Central Equatoria State Acting Minister of Information, in a statement on Monday accused armed men from the opposition for killing civilians last week at Leikor trading center in Kajo Keji County.
He said that the attackers opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the tragic deaths of four young individuals, adding three victims died on the scene, while the fourth succumbed to injuries later that night at Kajo Keji Civil Hospital.
In addition to the loss of life, the assailants looted shops and vandalized businesses near the Kangapo Payam headquarters.
This incident follows two earlier attacks in Wonduruba Administrative Payam and Kulipapa Boma of Ganji Payam in Juba County, which together claimed the lives of over 20 individuals.
The violence raises significant concern about the safety and security of communities in Central Equatoria State.
Francis expressed profound sorrow and deep concern regarding the rising tide of violence, which is instilling fear and insecurity among the local population.
The Central Equatoria State government said it vehemently condemns these acts, recognizing that they threaten the fragile peace, stability, and development that the region has been striving to achieve.
“These violent acts do not just take lives; they destroy the fabric of our communities,” Francis said.
In response to the escalating violence, the government has initiated immediate measures aimed at addressing the security situation.
Francis assured that they remain committed to working closely with security forces to enhance efforts to restore safety and order in the State.
“We are mobilizing resources and support to ensure that our communities feel safe and protected,” he said.
Francis urged the local population to return to Kajo Keji, assuring them that calm is beginning to return to the area.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ending the tragic conflict that has plagued the county, stressing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collaboration and dialogue among all stakeholders.