By Bida Elly David
Speaker of National Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba condemns recent attacks on civilians in Tombura County, Western Equatoria State.
“I condemn in the strongest terms possible the attacks on civilians, including assassination attempts on three local chiefs and youth leaders,” Kumba said, highlighting the targeting of specific individuals.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Nunu described the violence as unacceptable and a violation of human rights and the peace agreement.
“These attacks inflict immense suffering and undermine peaceful coexistence in Tombura County,” she stated.
The speaker offered her condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed concern for the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio regarding the abduction of a priest and his staff member.
Noting the dire humanitarian situation caused by the attacks, Mrs. Kumba emphasized the displacement of over 50,000 people seeking refuge in churches, schools, and the UNMISS base. She described their situation as “displaced civilians who have sought refuge” for clarity.
She urged authorities and peace partners to condemn the violence and take action.
“I urge the relevant authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice,” Kumba stressed.
She emphasized the state government’s responsibility to protect citizens and restore security.
The speaker demanded the immediate release of the abducted priest and his driver. “I call on the state authority for an immediate end to these attacks and the release of those abducted,” she echoed.
Kumba urged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Relief and Rehabilitation Commission to mobilize aid organizations to assist the displaced victims.
She commended the deployment of security forces by President Kiir and appealed for calm in Western Equatoria and Tombura in particular.
“I urge relevant government institutions to do everything within their capacity to restore peace in Tambura,” Kumba said.
She further addressed the youth involved in the attacks.
“Look into the eyes of innocent children, our elders, pregnant women… cease this barbaric behaviour,” Kumba emotionally concluded.