Kiir told to protect civilians in Fangak as violence surges

Wed 2025-05-21

Salva Kiir, President of South Sudan. [Photo: Courtesy]

BOR – The Fangak Youth Union (FYU) has issued an appeal urging the government of South Sudan, under the leadership of President Salva Kiir to take immediate action to protect civilians affected by ongoing violence in Fangak County, Jonglei State.

In a letter dated May 19, addressed to the government, Fangak Youth Union Chairperson Mawich Duoth Gatluak expressed deep concern over the suffering endured by the local population, particularly the elderly, women, and children in Fangak County.

The letter highlights the urgency of the situation, emphasising the severe impact on women and children.

“I respectfully write to express deep concern over the ongoing violence affecting civilians, particularly the youth, elderly, women, and innocent young children in Fangak County, Jonglei State,” said Duoth.

“In these challenging times, I urge the government to take immediate steps to protect all citizens and ensure their safety and dignity,” he added.

The Fangak Youth Union underscores the devastating impact of the violence, noting that it deepens divisions and prolongs the suffering of local populations.

The organisation calls on the government to prioritise peaceful dialogue, inclusive engagement, and nonviolent solutions as the path forward.

Drawing on historical precedent, the letter expresses hope for a peaceful resolution in Jonglei State.

“History has shown that lasting peace is built through empathy, understanding, and negotiation. I sincerely hope our nation will rise to this occasion with wisdom and compassion,” said Duoth.

The Fangak Youth Union concludes its appeal with a plea for respect and hope, urging the government to heed their call and take decisive action to safeguard the lives and well-being of the vulnerable population in Fangak County, Jonglei State.

“In these challenging times, I urge the government to take immediate steps to protect all citizens and ensure their safety and dignity,” Duoth reiterated.

The appeal follows a devastating aerial attack in Old Fangak on May 3, which destroyed health facilities belonging to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

The attack began at approximately 4:30 a.m. when two helicopter gunships dropped a bomb on the MSF pharmacy, burning it to the ground, before firing on the town of Old Fangak for about 30 minutes. At around 7:00 a.m., a drone bombed the Old Fangak market. The attack resulted in at least seven deaths and 20 injuries.

The military operation, which sparked outrage worldwide, was carried out days after the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) warned of a potential attack targeting elements of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), who allegedly seized multiple boats and barges along the Nile River.

The attacks are reportedly continuing. In early May, Lul Ruai Koang, the Spokesperson of SSPDF, said the military command “has no comments to make on reported strategic bombing raids in Fangak and Mayom Counties of Jonglei and Unity States, respectively.”

sudanspost.com