By Dibaco Sabri
Civil society organizations have called for an immediate investigation into the killing of nearly 200 people in the Ruweng Administrative Area.
The right groups described the incident as a grave human rights violation and a serious setback to the country’s fragile peace process.
In statements issued on Tuesday, the groups strongly condemned the attack, which they said claimed the lives of innocent men, women, and children.
“The civil society organizations are calling for an immediate investigation into the killings and urge the authorities to bring those responsible to justice,” part of the statement read.
In an interview with No.1 Citizen, Robert Guya Antipas, the chairperson of Central Equatoria State Civil Society Network (CESCSN) urged government to investiaget the killing.
“So let the government prioritize the safety and the security of the citizens and Let them go down and investigate” he said.
Guya urged the youth in South Sudan to solve the problem facing the country and stop incitement.
“The youth should really look at themselves as the solution to the problems the country is facing, stop incitement, tribalistic and hate speech on social media” he said.
According to reports, nine members of the organized forces were also affected during the violence. At least 23 injured civilians were transferred to Turalei Hospital in Warrap State for treatment, while more than 100 others were taken to Rumamer County for medical care.
The attack displaced more than 1,000 residents, who sought protection at the UNMISS compound in Ruweng.
An unspecified number of civilians also fled to the Abyei area in search of safety.
The activists described the violence as “unacceptable and senseless,” stressing that those responsible must not go unpunished.
They extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and expressed solidarity with the affected communities.
The groups urged the government of South Sudan to strengthen security in Ruweng and other vulnerable areas to prevent further bloodshed.
They also called for improved protection of civilians and the establishment of effective early warning systems to deter armed groups.
At the same time, community members were urged to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory attacks.
“Dialogue is the best way to resolve problems, not revenge,” the statement emphasized, warning that retaliation would only worsen the situation.
Humanitarian organizations were also appealed to provide urgent assistance, including food, shelter, and medical support, to displaced families.
On Sunday, armed youth reportedly launched a pre-dawn attack on Abiemnhom County, killing two senior local officials and displacing an unknown number of civilians.
Civil society groups reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, justice, and human rights across South Sudan, calling on all stakeholders to work together to end the cycle of violence and build lasting peace.