By Kei Emmanuel Duku
The Central Equatoria State Security Committee, chaired by Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, convened a security meeting this week to address the escalating security situation in Morobo, Kajo-Keji, and Yei River counties.
The meeting focused on key issues affecting the state, and several resolutions were passed to address the current challenges.
Following the meeting, Hon. Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, the Acting State Minister of Information and Communication, briefed the media, confirming that the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have successfully regained control of Libogo and Lasu in Yei River County.
This follows a weekend of military attacks by joint forces of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the National Salvation Front (NAS).
In recent days, Central Equatoria State has experienced persistent instability due to conflicts between government forces and various armed groups. The presence of armed opposition, including elements of the SPLA-IO and NAS, has led to intermittent clashes, displacing thousands and creating a volatile security environment.
According to Minister Aligo, the coordinated attacks on Lasu and Libogo were launched on the morning of August 16. “Our forces, the SSPDF, responded swiftly, repelled the attackers, and stabilized the security situation in both areas,” Aligo stated.
A press statement issued by the armed opposition over the weekend claimed they had killed 12 SSPDF members and captured a number of ammunitions. However, a government army spokesperson could not verify these claims.
The counties of Morobo and Kajo – Keji have of recent been prone to cross-border incursions, such as the recent one involving the Ugandan army. These factors have compounded a severe humanitarian crisis, with a significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and disrupted livelihoods.
The minister also expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Kangapo-2 and Liwolo Payams of Kajo – Keji county. A recent incursion by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) forced approximately 16,000 civilians to flee for their safety. These displaced individuals, primarily from six different locations across the county, have created a “serious humanitarian crisis.”
In addition to the recent clashes, Aligo highlighted an increase in armed attacks by “holdout groups” in Morobo County, which continue to threaten civilian safety. He also noted a surge in land grabbing and other criminal incidents within Juba City, posing a significant security threat to residents.
To combat the insecurity, the Security Committee has directed all security forces to uphold the rule of law, protect civilians, and work to end the instability across the state.