A member of Western Equatoria State’s Legislative Assembly was shot dead, and a motorcycle taxi driver was wounded in an ambush by unidentified gunmen early Thursday between Nagero and Tambura counties, officials said.
Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Philip Madut Tong confirmed the attack to Radio Tamazuj, saying it occurred around 6:30 a.m. as the victims were traveling from Nagero to Tambura.
“The attackers opened fire on the motorcycle, killing one person and injuring another,” Tong said. “The security situation in Tambura remains calm, but we urge the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid unnecessary travel.”
He condemned the violence, addressing the perpetrators: “Why are you killing innocent people for nothing? This must stop.”
Tambura County Commissioner Mathew Mabenge identified the slain lawmaker as Cross Uffo Bazia, a member of the state assembly. Mabenge said Bazia had been mobilizing his colleagues from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) to join the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF).
“Hon. Cross Uffo was ambushed by individuals opposed to his efforts,” Mabenge alleged. “These attackers are known to be aligned with SPLM-IO and were against his move to promote government unity.”
The motorcycle taxi driver transporting Bazia was also shot and is receiving medical treatment.
SPLA-IO officials in the area could not immediately be reached for comment.
Mary Sungu Yore, chairperson for information, youth, culture, and sports in the state assembly, condemned the killing.
“This is a barbaric act,” she said. “We are mourning the loss of our colleague. Hon. Cross Uffo Bazia was simply heading to his garden when he was ambushed. We call on the state and national authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
She expressed concern for the safety of other lawmakers in Western Equatoria State, saying such attacks create fear among public officials.
“We are afraid here in Yambio. If this can happen to one of us, who knows what will happen next?” she added.
Authorities said they have launched an investigation.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
This is not the first attack to occur in Tambura. Earlier this month, unidentified gunmen attacked Tambura Hospital in Tambura County, forcing the facility to close temporarily.
In a separate incident, unidentified gunmen shot and killed a Catholic priest in Tambura.