Western Equatoria Should Be Divided into Four States: A Path Toward Stability

By Peter Mainzee  

The ongoing crisis in Western Equatoria State has reached a critical juncture. To address the deep-rooted divisions plaguing the region, it may be time for the President to consider dividing the state into four separate entities. The complex interplay of intercommunal tensions, historical grievances, and struggles for political representation has created an urgent need for administrative restructuring—one that could pave the way for lasting peace and stability.

Western Equatoria has long been marred by persistent ethnic divisions and conflicts. While these tensions were not always violent, the past few decades have witnessed an escalation driven by political rivalries, chronic marginalization, and fierce competition for resources.

The region’s history is steeped in grievances passed down through generations. For example, the age-old conflict between the Azande King Gbudue and the Moru people—where the king’s forces infamously burned Moru settlements—remains etched in the collective memory of the Moru community. Elders persistently recount these stories, fostering a sense of unresolved injustice.

The Balanda community has similarly experienced systemic marginalization. In Tambura, they have been denied the right to speak their language, with place names that once held Balanda origins being replaced by Azande names. This pattern of exclusion has not only fueled resentment but has also exacerbated the ethnic divide.

In Maridi, the Baka community grapples with long-standing border tensions, particularly related to the establishment of Ibba County, which is perceived as an attempt to heighten Azande influence within Maridi territory. Such territorial disputes remain unresolved and add to the friction between communities.

Political power struggles in Western Equatoria have further heightened ethnic tensions. Tribal affiliations heavily influence governance, leading groups to resist leadership from outside their respective ethnic communities. The growing presence of armed civilians exacerbates the volatility, as local disputes can rapidly escalate into violent confrontations.

A poignant illustration of this divide unfolded in Maridi during a recent family prayer event hosted by Hon. Africano Mande. Despite the presence of notable officials, including Governor Gen. Jadallah of Central Equatoria, the Azande King, King Peni, was largely sidelined. This incident underscores a troubling trend: local leaders in Maridi exhibited a blatant disregard for the authority of the Azande king, necessitating a separate administrative structure.

A similar occurrence took place in Yambio, where a governor from a different ethnic group faced public rejection and was forced to leave. The reaction of the local population made it clear—they prefer leaders from within their own community. Such incidents illuminate the deep-seated divisions in Western Equatoria and a widespread unwillingness to accept governance by those outside their ethnic lines.

The Balanda community has arguably suffered the most in terms of political exclusion. They have consistently been denied positions of authority, and when a Balanda governor was eventually appointed, he was forcibly removed. This entrenched resistance to Balanda leadership highlights the urgent need for a distinct administrative unit that can offer fair representation and access to government services.

A Proposal for Four States

In light of these historical grievances and political struggles, dividing Western Equatoria into four states could provide a sustainable solution. Such a restructuring would grant each group greater autonomy, thereby reducing conflicts that stem from forced co-governance.

Here’s how the proposed states might be structured:

1. Moru State (formerly Amadi): This state would empower the Moru community to govern their affairs, preserving their cultural and political rights. Given that very few Azande or Balanda landowners exist in Greater Mundri—most being military personnel—this area naturally functions as a distinct entity.

2. Maridi: This region should also be granted statehood, reflecting its unique ethnic and political landscape. The episode of the Azande king’s rejection during a public event illustrates the disconnect between local leadership and the broader political structure of Western Equatoria. A separate state for Maridi would facilitate more locally responsive governance.

3. Yambio/Gbudue State: This administrative unit would encompass Yambio, Nzara, and Ezo, resonating with the strong ethnic identity and historical legacy of the Azande people in the area. Given Yambio’s citizens’ strong preference for self-rule, this restructuring would mitigate future governance conflicts.

4. Mamurunze State: The Balanda community would benefit from their own state, which could integrate Nagero, Tambura, and Nadiangere. This arrangement would ensure the Balanda have political representation and access to essential services, free from interference by historically dominant groups.

The current framework of Western Equatoria State fails to reflect the realities of its ethnic, historical, and political divisions. As long as various communities feel marginalized from governance, conflicts will persist. Dividing Western Equatoria into four states could not only reduce tensions but also empower each community to develop on its own terms, diminishing competition and resentment.

Through this administrative restructuring, we can finally work towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.

By Peter Mainzee  

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