Journalist Survives Ambush in Yambio

By Waure Eddy                                               

A journalist affiliated with several media outlets in Western Equatoria State narrowly escaped death on Monday evening after being ambushed by an armed assailant while heading home.

Bongomin Walter Joshua, 34, was attacked around 8:00 PM along the road to Ikpiro, near the Catholic University Campus in Yambio. He had just finished his evening meal in town when the incident took place.

Walter, who works for Anisa FM under the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio and the Africano Mande Foundation Radio, and also serves at Nile Progressive Secondary School, recounted a traumatic event during an interview with The Dawn on Tuesday.

“I was on my way home when I reached the area behind St. John’s Catholic University Campus. I saw a man in military uniform who suddenly started shooting at me,” Walter said. “By the grace of God, I managed to survive. I fell from my motorcycle and rolled off the road to avoid the bullets.”

The assailant seized the motorcycle and fled the scene. Although Walter was unharmed, he was left deeply shaken.

Walter emphasized the importance of journalists maintaining neutrality and professionalism. “We journalists in South Sudan are neutral. We don’t take sides. Our job is to inform the public truthfully and ethically,” he stated.

He further called on authorities to ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear. “Freedom of expression and safety are vital for us to serve the nation.”

Reacting to the incident, Hon. Annan Tuna, Acting Minister of Information and Communication in Western Equatoria State, strongly condemned the attack.

“We condemn this act against one of our own. Journalists must be protected as they play a critical role in building peace and informing the public,” Hon. Tuna said. “The government is committed to ensuring sustainable peace and safety for everyone in the state.”

She also urged journalists to prioritize their safety while performing their duties, assuring them of the government’s support.