The Deputy Governor highlighted his readiness to take bold measures, including visiting Tombura to assess the situation and enforce peace.

By Emmanuel Mandella

Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, has issued a stern warning against tribalism, saying it is a divisive tool that has no place in the State.

Speaking about the ongoing crisis in Tombura, Badagbu emphasized the urgency of restoring harmony and ensuring accountability for the increasing violence.

“As I have said, it has started. We have already apprehended people in Tombura who have committed crimes, and we will continue arresting such perpetrators,” he said.

“The issue in Tombura is on top of my list and must be stopped. I condemn it in the strongest terms possible. We cannot turn against ourselves. Western Equatoria has never been a tribalistic state before, and we must not allow this detrimental mentality to take root.”

The Deputy Governor highlighted his readiness to take bold measures, including visiting Tombura to assess the situation and enforce peace.

He said there would be a need for a state of emergency in Tombura where everyone would need permission even to carry tools to their gardens should the conflict in the area intensify.

“I don’t recognize tribalism as a tool to transform South Sudan. Positions will not be allocated based on tribe but on competence and the ability to serve all Western Equatorians. We will work together as one people to build a just society,” he stated.

The Tombura conflict, marked by tribal clashes and mounting casualties, has disrupted the area’s productivity and social cohesion.

The deputy governor expressed frustration over the region’s regression, recalling the days when Tombura was known for its agricultural contributions.
“Tombura used to feed Yambio and send food to Wau. We need to transform it back into a productive county, not a war zone,” he lamented.

To address the conflict, Badagbu outlined several approaches including law enforcement, preventive mechanisms, and collaboration with peacebuilding partners.

“We will create the necessary structures to de-escalate the situation, build trust, and encourage communication among communities. This will pave the way for reconciliation and unity,” he explained.

He further called on those instigating violence to cease their activities and embrace dialogue.

“I call upon everyone in Tombura to stop the killings. Those behind this must stop. We need love, unity, and reconciliation so that Tombura can regain its status as a productive county,” he urged.

Badagbu emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law as no one is above it.

“Any criminal who has committed a crime must be arrested and appear before a competent court. We need to ensure justice is served so that people can live justly and peacefully,” he said.

 “A life lost is a hundred lives devalued. We are not butchers; even animals in our parks are protected. Human life is sacred, and we must treat it as such.”

“I don’t recognize tribalism as a tool to transform South Sudan. Positions will not be allocated based on tribe but on competence and the ability to serve all Western Equatorians. We will work together as one people to build a just society,” Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor, Daniel Badagbu.