Futuyo, affiliated to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO), fled Yambio shortly after he was removed from office on February 10.

By Emmanuel Mandella

The acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu has confirmed that the family of ousted Governor Alfred Futuyo is under tight protection following the reshuffles that took place in the state and caused some temporary tension.

Futuyo, affiliated to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO), fled Yambio shortly after he was removed from office on February 10.

Tension escalated after an exchange of gunfire erupted near Futuyo’s residence, which triggered widespread anxiety among residents.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Badagbu sought to calm public fears, stating that he is personally overseeing the welfare of the former governor’s wife, their children, and bodyguards.

“I am personally taking care of the former governor’s wife and children. I assure you they are safe and well protected. I urge those who fled to return, and I will continue to support them,” Badagbu said.

He added that some of Futuyo’s close relatives are still displaced but pledged that the state government is working tirelessly to ensure their protection.

Badagbu further revealed that he has been in regular contact with SPLM-IO leader and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. He urged senior state officials who fled the capital to return and help restore normalcy.

 “We are doing everything possible to ensure peace and stability. We are committed to protecting the people of Western Equatoria,” he stressed.

Despite these assurances, civil society leaders are warning that the situation remains fragile.

Wanga Emmanuel, Executive Director of VISION South Sudan and chairperson of Western Equatoria Network for Civil Society Organizations (NECSOs), emphasized on the urgent need for a safe environment to facilitate Futuyo’s return.

“It is essential that all parties work together to ensure his safety. We urge the former governor to come back to the state,” Wanga said.

Odetta Miwai James, Executive Director of APDO and Deputy Chairperson of NECSOs, echoed these sentiments.

“Leadership transitions are part of governance, and it’s crucial to avoid politicizing the situation. Stability must be prioritized,” Miwai noted.

Meanwhile, with the developments in Western Equatoria State, all eyes remain on whether Futuyo will return and how the acting administration will address the security dynamics. Badagbu’s commitment to safeguarding Futuyo’s family is seen as a positive step, but many believe that broader efforts are needed to restore total calm.

“South Sudan cannot afford another cycle of violence, especially with the transitional deadline approaching. Stability in Western Equatoria is not just a local concern, it’s a national imperative,” said Wanga.

South Sudan’s fragile peace process faces a critical test in 2025 when the transitional period is expected to end. Political reshuffles such as Futuyo’s removal underscore the delicate balance between unity and division in the country’s governance.

As Western Equatoria grapples with leadership changes, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the state moves toward lasting stability or further unrest.