JUBA – Central Equatoria State Minister of Youth and Sports, Bush Buse, on Monday temporarily suspended community sports tournaments following a series of clashes linked to sporting activities at local playgrounds in Juba.
The ministerial order issued by minister Buse on 17 August 2026 is intended to prevent further violence and maintain peace among young people participating in community tournaments.
The suspension followed clashes on Sunday between teams from Cueibet and Twic counties at Munuki and Buluk playgrounds, an incident involving a firearm that raised concerns over public safety.
“Recent, violent incidents, notably at Munuki Playground resulting in injuries, and an intimidation incident at Buluk Playground involving a firearm, threaten public safety and tarnish the peaceful image of sports,” the order read.
Buse said such behavior contradicts the social cohesion that sports are meant to promote and has attracted negative attention on social media.
He emphasized the urgent need to align grassroots sports initiatives, including community and youth-led tournaments, with established state regulatory frameworks to promote peaceful coexistence and ensure compliance with legal standards.
“This suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place pending investigations and a comprehensive administrative review,” he said.
He said the order does not apply to leagues and tournaments organized under the Juba Football Association, South Sudan Football Federation, other legally recognized sports bodies, sports academies, school competitions, and registered clubs.
Buse also prohibited sports associations and clubs from approving playgrounds for community sports tournaments within Juba City.
“Under the order, community sports associations and their teams must register with the Central Equatoria State Youth and Sports Registration Commission to obtain authorization to organize tournaments, in accordance with state sports laws and procedures.”
He directed security agencies, including the State National Security Directorate, State Police, and Central Security Division, to enforce the order.
“Non-compliance shall attract administrative sanctions, including suspension or revocation of facility access and potential legal action under applicable laws governing sports and land use.”
He said the order is intended to safeguard the safety, legality, and integrity of sporting activities across Juba and Central Equatoria State.
