![A UN peacekeeper escorts women and children in the violence-rocked Tambura County, Western Equatoria State recently [Photo via Eye Radio]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Peacekeeper-847x565-1.jpg?resize=847%2C565&quality=89&ssl=1)
The renewed violence erupted last week in clashes between the Balanda and Azande communities.
Fighting since June 2021 between militia groups allegedly backed by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has resulted in over 400 deaths and displaced more than 50,000 civilians, primarily women, children, and the elderly.
Tombura has witnessed killings, kidnappings, disappearances, and property destruction. Lawmakers demanded a parliamentary fact-finding mission to ensure justice for the victims.
Oliver Mori Benjamin, Chairperson of the Information Committee and Assembly spokesperson, announced the committee’s formation after a parliamentary session in Juba.
“This nine-member committee will travel to Western Equatoria to investigate the reported killings of around 400 people, including a priest,” Benjamin said on Tuesday.
“They will assess the situation and determine the validity of these reports, as violence appears to be spiraling out of control in Tombura County,” he added.
Benjamin stated that the investigation’s findings would guide the parliament in taking appropriate action.
“The parliament opted against summoning the defense minister or Governor at this stage. We have decided to take a proactive approach and send a committee to investigate the root cause of these killings in Tombura firsthand,” he said.
“They will present a report to the parliament, which will be debated, and a resolution outlining appropriate action will be reached. This may include summoning the Minister, Governor, or anyone else deemed responsible,” he added.
Clement Juma, who introduced the motion on the Tombura killings, highlighted the ongoing tension.
“Despite accusations of their involvement in most of the violence against Tombura residents, including the 2021 conflict that claimed 400 lives and displaced over 80,000 people after the SPLA-IO refused relocation, tensions remain high,” Juma said.
“The SPLA-IO militia continues to roam the town well-armed, intimidating civilians. It’s important to note that even government officials, including the current SPLA veteran county commissioner, are not spared,” he added.
