A member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has called for an independent investigation into the injury of a woman who fell into an oil waste pit operated by the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) in Unity State’s Rubkona County. Kasare Nyier Gatluak fell into the hazardous waste pit in Munga on 14 September 2026, and is currently receiving treatment at Gudele Hospital in Juba. Malek Cook-Dwach, a member of the Standing Specialized Committee on Petroleum in the TNLA, made the demand.
Cook-Dwach demanded that GPOC account for the incident and cover the victim’s medical expenses. He called on the company to immediately cover all medical expenses of Kasare Nyier Gatluak at Gudele Hospital and for any further treatment required until full recovery, and provide fair compensation to the victim and family. The lawmaker also urged GPOC to publicly explain the circumstances surrounding the incident and cooperate with an independent investigation.
The lawmaker further urged the Ministry of Petroleum, together with relevant environmental authorities, to conduct an urgent audit of oil waste ponds and pits across Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area. The inspection should cover facilities operated by GPOC, Sudd Petroleum Operating Company (SPOC) and other oil companies, starting with the Munga site. This audit aims to identify and address potential safety hazards and environmental risks.
Cook-Dwach demanded that oil companies secure waste ponds and pits with perimeter fencing, warning signs, controlled access and lighting where necessary. He also called for hazardous facilities to be kept away from villages, roads and grazing routes, or otherwise made inaccessible to people and livestock. These measures are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of local communities.
According to Cook-Dwach, oil companies should also conduct environmental and social impact assessments and regular safety audits, with the findings shared with government authorities, parliament and host communities. He said operators must maintain emergency response and rescue systems and take responsibility for the medical costs and compensation of people affected by operational hazards. This will help prevent similar incidents and ensure that oil companies are held accountable.
The MP also called for greater investment in host communities through water, healthcare, education, roads and livelihood programmes, as well as increased local employment and local content. Cook-Dwach said the Standing Specialized Committee on Petroleum will summon responsible government officials and company representatives to appear before the Assembly and report its findings. This will help ensure that oil companies are operating responsibly and in line with South Sudanese laws and safety standards.
Addressing the leadership of Nile Petroleum Corporation (NILEPET), the Ministry of Petroleum, GPOC and SPOC, Cook-Dwach said oil-sector managers have a responsibility to protect communities living around oilfields. He emphasized that oil must not be a curse to the people who live above it, and that Unity State communities have already endured conflict, displacement and environmental damage and should now benefit from greater safety and development.
Key points
- The lawmaker demands GPOC to cover medical expenses and provide fair compensation to the victim.
- An urgent audit of oil waste ponds and pits is called for across Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area.
- Oil companies are urged to secure waste ponds and pits with safety measures and conduct regular safety audits.
