Two killed in attack on SPLM delegates in Western Equatoria

An attack on a vehicle carrying ruling SPLM delegates in Western Equatoria State has resulted in at least two deaths, one critical injury, and several others reported missing. The attack occurred on Thursday at around 9 p.m. in Miri Loko village, Mundri East County. The delegates were traveling from Lui Payam to Mundri West County after attending party primaries and congresses.

The victims of the attack included Veronica Lucy Gordon, a former South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation journalist who had recently been nominated for a women's seat in the National Legislative Assembly, and Justin Akim, a former teacher and elder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. One person was critically injured and receiving treatment at Lui Hospital, while several other delegates fled into nearby bushes during the attack.

Deng Dau Deng, chairperson of the SPLM High-Level Committee in Western Equatoria, confirmed three security incidents during the party's ongoing primaries and county congresses. He stated that the state had generally remained peaceful, despite two incidents in Tambura County and Thursday's attack in Greater Mundri. An ambush occurred in Mapoi Payam, Tambura County, on November 6, followed by another incident on November 10.

The Western Equatoria State caretaker government condemned the attack, expressing concern over the deaths and injuries. Minister of Information, Communication and Telecommunication, Noah Issah Philip, called on armed individuals attacking vehicles along roads to stop the violence. He urged residents to maintain peace as South Sudan prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026.

Philip emphasized that citizens have the right to move freely and participate in political activities without fear of attack. He extended condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Daite Matthew Bakhieth, commissioner of Mundri East County, confirmed receiving reports of two deaths and other injuries, stating that the situation was currently normal.

The attack has raised concerns over the security of political delegates and other road users in parts of Western Equatoria, particularly amid SPLM primaries and county congresses ahead of South Sudan's planned December 22, 2026, general elections. The incident has sparked fears of escalating violence in the region.

The SPLM High-Level Committee in Western Equatoria State extended heartfelt condolences to the families and SPLM membership in Mundri East County following the tragic loss of lives and injuries. The incident serves as a reminder of the security challenges facing the region as the country prepares for the upcoming elections.

Key points

• Two people killed in attack on SPLM delegates in Western Equatoria
• Attack occurred on Thursday in Miri Loko village, Mundri East County
• Incident raises concerns over security of political delegates and road users ahead of general elections