By Yiep Joseph
As conflict persists in Western Equatoria state and Tombura county in particular, Church-based leaders are calling for President Salva Kiir to intervene to bring the violence to an end.
In a statement obtained by this outlet, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio expressed that the situation in Tombura County of Western Equatoria state continues to worsen.
Since fighting erupted on May 19, 2021, between rival armed groups in the Tombura area, conflict continues to persist in the area despite several peace initiatives.
Bishop Hiiboro called on President Salva Kiir to intervene and ensure that the violence in Tombura County is brought to an end.
The bishop’s issued the statement to condemn the spread of violence that recently involved churches and vulnerable people.
“I unequivocally condemn this brutal act of aggression, which has taken life of innocent person and left others traumatized and injured,” the bishop said in a statement.
According to the clergy, on the evening of December 10th, 2024, a horrific attack took place at the St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Parish in Tombura.
He said that armed individuals opened fire indiscriminately into the displaced persons’ camp, tragically killing one person and severely wounding a woman.
The bishop urged the citizens to rest holy places and shun any form of violence.
Bishop Hiiboro questions whether President Salva Kiir is aware of the violence in Tombura County as it persists.
“It is deeply troubling that such tragic events continue to unfold with little response from the government. Where is the president of the Republic of South Sudan?” he questioned.
“The situation in Tombura County has spiralled out of control, and it is the government’s duty to restore order and ensure the safety of its citizens,” he added.
He reiterated his call on the government to put more efforts into ending the conflict, adding that it has continued
“I also urge the government of South Sudan to provide immediate protection for vulnerable populations, especially the displaced,” he said.
“Three years of violence in Tombura County, and yet, there seems to be no action or concern from the highest office in the land,” he added.
The bishop called on all the citizens to condemn the violation and concentrate on building peace.
Recently the County Commissioner of Tambura County in Western Equatoria State said he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Wednesday.
The fighting between communities in Western Equatoria state is believed to be incited by politicians.
In April the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio in Western Equatoria State expressed grave concern over the reoccurrence of violence in Tombura and issued a call for the national government’s intervention on the matter.
At that time, the Diocesan Bisho, Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala asked President Salva Kiir to declare a state of emergency and reign over the crisis that tears apart, the communities of Tombura County.