The accusations, authored by an individual identified as ‘concerned citizen’ suggested that the Deputy Governor delivered arms, including AK-47s, PKMs, and ammunition, to armed groups in Tombura

By Emmanuel Mandella

The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu, has dismissed allegations accusing him of transporting weapons to Tombura County to target specific groups or non-Azande tribe. The Deputy Governor’s office described the claims as baseless, and as allegations that risk undermining ongoing peace efforts in the region.

The accusations, authored by an individual identified as ‘concerned citizen’ suggested that the Deputy Governor delivered arms, including AK-47s, PKMs, and ammunition, to armed groups in Tombura, at the height of heightened tension on the region. Furthermore, the statement alleged that Mr. Badagbu provided financial support to Azande forces with divisive bombast, allegedly urging “cleansing” of non-Azande tribes in the county.

In response, the Deputy Governor’s office condemned the allegations as “false propaganda” intended to derail peacebuilding initiatives.

“These claims are not only unfounded but also a serious distraction from our collective mission to bring stability and reconciliation to Tombura County,” read a statement issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor.

According to the statement by the office, the Deputy Governor recently visited Tombura as part of a delegation focused on fostering dialogue and restoring peace. Accompanied by state ministers, members of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, and law enforcement officials, Mr. Rimbasa held meetings with local authorities and community leaders to address escalating tensions.

The visit also coincided with the Centenary Celebration of Ave Maria Parish in Ngboko, organized by the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio. During the event, Mr. Badagbu Daniel called for unity and urged residents to abandon conflicts.

“We must rise above our differences and work together for the betterment of our communities,” he stated, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable peace.

The Deputy Governor’s office expressed disappointment at the divisive nature of the allegations, which threaten to reverse hard-won progress in peace efforts.

“At a time when our people need solidarity, it is deeply troubling that certain individuals would spread such harmful propaganda,” the statement added.

The office called on the citizens of Western Equatoria and South Sudan to reject divisive narratives and unite for the greater good.

“We urge those spreading these falsehoods to cease immediately and join us in rebuilding trust and fostering sustainable peace”.

The Office of the Deputy Governor reiterated its commitment to peace and urged all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over conflict.

“We are at a critical juncture, and our collective actions will determine the future of Western Equatoria. Let us choose unity over division, dialogue over violence,” the statement read in part.

“We must rise above our differences and work together for the betterment of our communities,” reads a statement from the Office of the Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu.