Escalating Violence in Tombura County: CEPO Calls for Accountability and Action
Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the civil society organization, The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has condemned the ongoing violence and human rights abuses plaguing Tombura County. His statements come after a disturbing incident involving the killing of a soldier from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) who was delivering aid to vulnerable populations on December 25, 2025.*
Yakani emphasized the positive steps taken by local leadership to reallocate security forces that had overstayed in the region. However, he remains concerned about certain leaders who continue to escalate tensions and violence. “We are aware of some leaders who are fueling the occurrence of deadly violence in Tombura County,” he remarked, pointing to a broader culture of impunity that is undermining stability and peace.
In a warning to those perpetuating violence, Yakani stated, “CEPO respectfully urges the political and military leaders behind the deadly violence to cease their negative actions immediately. If they do not comply, we will take the action of naming them publicly by the end of this month.” He described the acts of violence and human rights violations as “inhumane” and called it intolerable that perpetrators may walk away unpunished.
The recent death of an unarmed woman at the hands of SSPDF soldiers—allegedly in retaliation for the earlier killing of their comrade—further underscores the urgent need for accountability. “This behavior is unacceptable and constitutes a violation of our Bill of Rights and the fundamental right to life,” Yakani asserted, demanding that the SSPDF leadership take responsibility for the actions of their troops.
While he acknowledged the efforts of the local government to reduce excessive military presence, Yakani warned, “While we appreciate relocation efforts, the violence continues unabated.”
He also called for international intervention, urging the United Nations Human Rights Commission in South Sudan to document these human rights violations and hold violators accountable. “We have sympathized too much. Those who enact violence will be named publicly, and their actions will eventually face consequences,” he promised.
As the situation in Tombura County remains precarious, local and international entities are urged to respond swiftly to safeguard human rights and foster a culture of non-violence and peace in this troubled region.
