Civilians Rescued from Bus Attack in South Sudan: CEPO Calls for Investigation and Justice
By Majur Chol Khor
In a recent development following the brutal attack on a civilian bus in South Sudan, several civilians who were abducted during the incident have been rescued by the South Sudan People Defense Force. The attack, which resulted in the loss of lives, injuries, and abductions, has sparked conflicting accusations from various parties involved.
Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, expressed concern over the situation, stating, “This is a crime against humanity, a violation of international law, and a discouragement for a successful political transition in the country.” Calling for a thorough investigation, Yakani urged the leadership of the country to promptly identify and hold accountable those responsible for the heinous attack.
Accusations have been made towards the forces of National Salvation Front and former General Paul Malong, although both parties have denied their involvement in the bus attack. With tensions rising and uncertainty prevailing, there is a pressing need for transparency and justice to prevail in order to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Yakani reiterated the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for the UN Human Rights Commission for South Sudan to intervene and investigate the human rights violations that occurred during the bus attack. “The perpetrators must be brought to justice, and those responsible for this heinous crime must be held accountable,” Yakani stated firmly.
As details continue to emerge regarding the heinous ambush of a Bebeto bus traveling from Juba to Kampala on the morning of September 24, 2024, outrage and condemnation have poured in from various quarters. The attack, orchestrated by an unknown gang in Kubi, Lokiliri Payam of Juba County, resulted in tragic loss of lives and left many families shattered.
In a press release dated September 25, 2024, the National Salvation Front-Revolutionary Command Council (NAS-RCC) vehemently denounced the barbaric attack and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The leadership of NAS-RCC emphasized their commitment to peace through the Tumaini initiative and categorically refuted any involvement in the despicable act of violence.
NAS-RCC spokesperson, Emmanuel Saber Festus, stated, “This attack is a sinister strategy by the enemies of peace to sabotage the Nairobi Peace talks and disrupt the progress towards a peaceful resolution of the political crisis in our country.” The organization called upon the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGONU) to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.
Furthermore, NAS-RCC urged human rights groups and the international community to intervene and hold the perpetrators of this senseless violence to account. “The suffering of South Sudanese must come to an end, and we stand firm in our commitment to the Tumaini initiative alongside other opposition parties in pursuit of a lasting and inclusive peace settlement,” Saber Festus reiterated.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this brutal attack, calls for justice, accountability, and a renewed commitment to peace have resonated across South Sudan. The need for unity, transparency, and swift action in addressing such atrocities remains crucial in order to prevent further loss of innocent lives and ensure a stable and prosperous future for all citizens.
The international community watches closely as South Sudan navigates this challenging period, hopeful that justice will prevail and that steps towards lasting peace and reconciliation will be taken swiftly and decisively.
