By Deng Ghai Deng
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has expressed deep concern over a series of violent clashes between armed actors in the greater Juba area of Central Equatoria state, resulting in the deaths of 24 people, including 19 civilians.
The incidents, which involved attacks and counter-attacks between former members of the National Salvation Front (NAS), occurred in Wonduruba Administrative Area and Ganji of Juba County.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS called for an immediate investigation by the Government of South Sudan to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Protection of civilians is paramount and must be respected at all times. There is no justification for the extrajudicial killing of civilians. International human rights law sets down clear rules, and all parties must abide by it,” Haysom stated.
In response to the violence, UNMISS has intensified patrols across Central Equatoria and is engaging with state and local authorities as well as community leaders to prevent further escalations.
The violence erupted on Wednesday in Wunduruba Administrative Payam following a clash between government-affiliated militias led by Gen. Kenyi Abdu, also known as Kenyi Warrior, and the National Salvation United Forces (NSUF) under Gen. Kenyi Loburon in Logoko Boma, near Wonduruba town.
Witnesses reported that nine SSPDF militia members were killed and several others injured, with Gen. Kenyi Warrior’s vehicle ambushed and destroyed during his attempted escape to Lainya.
SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang acknowledged the fighting but was unable to provide details, stating he was trying to contact the commander on the ground.
In a press statement, Gerald Francis, the Minister of Information and Communication in Central Equatoria state, condemned the incident, describing it as a human rights violation.
“The Government of Central Equatoria State expresses its deepest sorrow and condemnation over the horrific massacre. This heinous act is a grave violation of rights and a threat to peace and stability,” Francis said.
The state government, in collaboration with national authorities and security forces, is working to identify those responsible for the violence to ensure justice and peace prevail.
A press statement from the National Salvation United Forces (NASU), which splintered from NAS-Gen. Cirillo, claimed that the SSPDF and allied militias have been conducting ongoing offensives against them since September 5, 2024.