Authorities in Western Equatoria State have confirmed that three state ministers and a county commissioner have been missing since 10 February, raising concerns about their whereabouts.
The disappearance of the officials, who were appointed by the opposition SPLM-IO (Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition), follows President Salva Kiir’s decision to dismiss Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba, the SPLM-IO-affiliated governor of Western Equatoria State.
On 10 February, President Kiir issued a series of decrees unilaterally removing several senior government officials appointed under the terms of the 2018 peace agreement. Shortly after the decision, Gen. Futuyo’s residence in the state capital, Yambio, was reportedly attacked by elements linked to the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), forcing him to flee.
In the wake of the incident, several SPLM-IO officials in the state went into hiding, citing fears for their safety. Among them is Henry Bangada Asaya, the Commissioner of Nagero County, who reported that his house had been attacked.
Mary Osman, the SPLM-IO Secretary-General in Western Equatoria State, told Radio Tamazuj that the whereabouts of the missing officials remain unknown.
The missing individuals include Elia Dominic Usini, Minister of Information and Communication; Morris Bazia, Minister of Finance; Isaac Mursal, Minister of Public Service; and Henry Bangada Asaya, Commissioner of Nagero County.
“We do not know their exact location since the governor was relieved,” Osman said.
Bingo Elizabeth, the Deputy Acting Chairperson of SPLM-IO in Western Equatoria State, expressed concerns over increasing threats and intimidation against party members.
“We do not feel secure in Western Equatoria State due to ongoing intimidation and threatening remarks. As key signatories to the peace agreement, we expect full protection and respect for the accord,” Elizabeth said.
She called on state leaders to promote peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups, urging, “I ask, in the name of our ancestors, that you advocate for peace, ensure security, and foster unity among all tribes in Western Equatoria.”
Meanwhile, Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa sought to reassure the public, stating that the state government has no issues with the missing officials and urging them to return to work.
“The governor was appointed for the entire state, not just one political party. His removal by the president does not mean the collapse of the government,” Rimbasa said. “I have spoken to him, and I want to assure SPLM-IO leaders that they should resume their duties without fear. The peace agreement remains in effect, and we are committed to its implementation.”
He also called on the SPLM-IO to expedite the appointment of a new governor, stressing that the political transition should not disrupt government operations.
“I have told the SPLM-IO ministers that there is no reason for them to stay away. The political relationship between parties remains intact. The process of appointing a new governor is in the hands of SPLM-IO leadership, and they must take responsibility for filling the position,” he added.