Mathew Mabenge, the County Commissioner of Tambura County in Western Equatoria State, said he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Wednesday.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Commissioner Mabenge stated that his residence was targeted by rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) on Wednesday around 12:30 PM, though he was fortunate to escape unharmed.
“All of this is happening despite the peace agreement we signed with the SPLM-IO,” Mabenge expressed, voicing his frustration with the ongoing violence.
“This is the second such incident, and it seems there is a deliberate plot to eliminate me before Christmas and the New Year. We are aware of these schemes,” he added.
Despite the grave threat to his life, Mabenge reiterated his commitment to restoring peace and security in the county.
“I will wear military attire until peace is restored in Tambura County,” he declared. “I stand with the soldiers who are protecting both the Zande and Balanda communities. I will continue to advocate for peace and unity until these attacks cease.”
Lt. John Tindu Baptist, Deputy Chief Inspector of Police, confirmed the attack on the Commissioner’s residence.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Baptist said, “Yesterday, an RPG struck the house of the commissioner of Tambura. While we do not yet know the origin of these attacks, it is clear that criminals are involved, and investigations are underway.”
Baptist called on the Western Equatoria State government to urgently address the crisis in Tambura County. “Tambura is in a state of crisis. Children are unable to attend school, and overall instability is worsening. The state government must act swiftly,” he emphasized.
“This is not about the Zande and Balanda fighting each other—this is the work of politicians. We need the government to deploy forces to protect the people, and we urge the communities of Tambura to unite and live peacefully,” Baptist urged.
During a community gathering to discuss the incident, residents expressed growing concern about the escalating violence.
One witness described the attack as a clear assassination attempt, citing the use of RPGs and live ammunition.
A community member, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “We need decisive action to bring lasting peace to Tambura County. These ongoing acts of violence are tearing our communities apart.”