The authorities in Western Equatoria State have confirmed that calm has returned to Yambio, the capital of the state, following a month of unrest characterized by gunfire and looting.
Acting Police Commissioner General Samuel Tet told Radio Tamazuj that the security situation in Yambio and across Western Equatoria State had stabilised.
“Yambio is normal, and security is in place. We are focusing on improving security in residential areas,” he said. “There is nothing happening in terms of security or crime.”
Gen Tet added that ambushes on roads connecting Western Equatoria to other states had decreased significantly.
“It is not like before, when people were robbed on the roads. Now, you can travel freely from Yambio to Mundri without security issues,” he said. “The situation is stable, and I urge the community to return to their homes and clear their farms as the rainy season approaches.”
Meanwhile, Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa addressed concerns over the absence of ministers from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO) in the state government. This follows the removal of his former boss, Alfred Futuyo, by President Salva Kiir.
Acting Governor Rimbasa expressed surprise at reports that some government officials feared for their safety.
“It is surprising to hear that people in government are saying they are afraid,” he said. “If it were those in political offices, I would understand, but these are members appointed to the unified government.”
He called on SPLM-IO officials to return to their posts, stressing that the decision to remove officials rested with the SPLM-IO leadership, not the state government.
“I have called on the former Governor Futuyo to return. He was relieved of his duties by the President, but no one else was,” Rimbasa said.
The acting governor also denied allegations that threats had been made against ministers and reiterated his commitment to maintaining stability.
“I have issued a statement for all ministers and MPs to report to their offices,” he said. “As the acting governor, I am responsible for the state’s leadership, and I am committed to ensuring that stability is maintained.”
The return to calm in Yambio comes as residents prepare for the upcoming rainy season, with authorities urging communities to resume their daily activities.