Memoscar Lasuba, Author at Eye Radio

Aid worker dead as MSF accounts for missing staff in Jonglei

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

The Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has confirmed the status of 26 out of 291 staff members from Lankien and Pieri who were previously reported missing following recent conflict in Jonglei State.

In a post on its Facebook page Tuesday, the medical charity expressed deep sorrow in confirming that one staff member has died.

Two additional staff members are also believed to have died as a result of the violence in Lankien.

Despite extensive efforts, the organization said it has been unable to locate or contact relatives of the deceased, and has chosen not to release further details out of respect.

The remaining confirmed staff are reported safe, although some remain displaced across Jonglei State.

MSF says it is working urgently to support affected staff and their families, while also providing assistance to the family of the deceased colleague during what it described as a period of profound grief.

MSF reiterated its call for the protection of medical facilities, patients, and healthcare workers, stating that the attacks on healthcare services are unacceptable and severely impact vulnerable communities’ access to essential medical care. Continue reading “Aid worker dead as MSF accounts for missing staff in Jonglei”

Ateny defends youth against claims of idleness

Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

Government spokesperson Ateny Wek Ateny has come to the defense of South Sudanese youth, dismissing claims that high unemployment is caused by idleness. Continue reading “Ateny defends youth against claims of idleness”

Accountability key as analyst welcomes vote of no-confidence against speaker

Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

A South Sudanese policy analyst has described the recent vote of no-confidence against Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba and her deputies as a “significant development,” warning that failure to act could undermine transparency and accountability.

Analyst James Boboya Edmhund said the move reflects deeper governance failures within the ruling SPLM party, citing long-standing allegations of financial mismanagement that have not been formally addressed.

In a voice recording shared with Eye Radio, Boboya said the action by lawmakers signals a shift in parliamentary accountability. “This is a significant development in South Sudan when you see how governance within the SPLM appears to be failing,” he said.

He noted that despite years of rumors regarding the Speaker’s handling of funds, there had been little response from Members of Parliament.

“For many, many years, of course, there have been rumours that Nunu Kumba has been mismanaging funds, but there has been little reaction by the Members of Parliament,” Boboya said.

The analyst said it took “many years of courage” by MPs to act, though no legal action has been pursued. “They are holding Nunu Kumba accountable, not jailing her or taking her to court, but removing her from her position as Speaker,” he said.

Boboya cautioned that while the move may represent progress in the fight against corruption, South Sudan still lacks comprehensive procedures.

“There are no clear provisions and procedures of addressing corruption in South Sudan in a very comprehensive way,” he said. “This is a selective process. It’s part of naming and shaming, but it’s not comprehensive enough.”

He called for reforms and stressed that new parliamentary leadership must prioritize transparency and accountability. “We need to draw some of the lessons from this process,” he said.

“If there is going to be a new leadership in Parliament, it needs to manage the branch of government in a very democratic, transparent, and accountable way.”

Boboya warned that weak financial oversight could have far-reaching consequences, including challenges in funding elections and paying civil servants.

“What’s happening in South Sudan, as the Cabinet has also been doing, is self-governance where people take the public resources as individual resources and enrich their families,” he said.

“Even if we talk about elections in the future, without public funds it would be difficult to run them, leave alone pay civil servants.”

He concluded by calling for stronger accountability systems, saying governance challenges will persist unless reforms are implemented across state institutions.

President Kiir relieves Speaker, Deputy amid leadership conduct review

Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

President Salva Kiir has relieved Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba and Deputy Paramena Awerial of their duties following a party vote on leadership conduct. Continue reading “President Kiir relieves Speaker, Deputy amid leadership conduct review”

RTNLA sitting set amid leadership uncertainty as speaker omitted from agenda

Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

The Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly is set to hold a sitting on Tuesday, but Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba was not copied on the official agenda, signaling deepening uncertainty over the leadership of the August House.

The agenda, dated 6 April 2026, seen by Eye Radio, and issued by the Office of the Clerk, outlines the order of business for the session but omits any reference to the Speaker’s office.

Instead, it was copied to the Office of an Acting Speaker, whose name has not been mentioned, nor does the agenda specify the sitting’s full program.

The document lists routine proceedings, including prayers, communication from the chair, administration of oath, and announcements to the assembly.

This development comes days after members of the assembly voted to remove Nunu Kumba from her position, a decision her office has rejected, maintaining that she remains the legitimate Speaker.

Continue reading “RTNLA sitting set amid leadership uncertainty as speaker omitted from agenda”

Calm, order mark Easter celebrations across regions

Posted on April 6, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

Authorities in Unity State, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, Ruweng Administrative Area, and Abyei Administrative Area have reported calm and peaceful Easter celebrations, with no major security incidents recorded.

In Unity State, which has recently faced insecurity and cattle raids, security forces were deployed across Bentiu and other major towns to maintain order during the festivities.

State Minister of Information Nyakenya Yohanis said the celebrations proceeded without disruption, allowing residents to attend church services and carry on with daily activities.

“We are having a beautiful Easter. All the believers went to the churches and had a good celebration. Everything is calm. Security is stable right now,” she said.

“Police and security forces were deployed all over the state and there was no major incident reported. The celebration ran smoothly. Everybody is going about their activities. The new governor and his team are going to prioritize security and living in peace with our neighbours.”

In Western Bahr el Ghazal State, police also confirmed a stable security situation throughout the Easter period. Police spokesperson Lt. Col. Santino Udhuol attributed the calm to coordinated efforts by security agencies, including patrols and checkpoints.

“The general security situation across Wau municipality and all counties of the state has remained calm and stable during the past three days of the Holy Easter,” he said.

“This stability is attributed to the coordinated efforts of the police service and other organized forces… Our joint forces are continuing targeted operations to crack down on criminal gangs and nighttime armed robbers.”

In the Ruweng Administrative Area, authorities said the holiday was marked by peaceful celebrations, with residents travelling freely to visit family. Information Minister James Monyluak Majok said that the calm environment is now allowing communities to focus on agricultural preparations.

“The general situation, including security, is normal as of today. Easter was celebrated peacefully,” he said. “People travelled from payam to payam and county to county… Residents are now preparing their fields for the new farming season. Religious leaders also preached peaceful coexistence, and the government provided security.”

Similarly, Abyei Administrative Area recorded incident-free celebrations. Information Minister Yohana Akol said residents were able to worship safely, with the area’s governor joining congregants at a major Catholic church.

“The situation is calm with the help of all police. People have celebrated in most churches,” she said. “The Governor celebrated with faithful in the biggest Catholic church and emphasized the importance of avoiding misinformation as the area faces several challenges.”

Across all regions, authorities have called for continued cooperation between communities, religious leaders, and security agencies to sustain peace and stability.

Continue reading “Calm, order mark Easter celebrations across regions”

Greater Yei chiefs appeal for peace after Khor Galtan attack

Posted on April 6, 2026April 6, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

The Greater Yei Council of Chiefs has called on South Sudan’s leadership to urgently prioritize the safety and security of civilians following attacks in Central Equatoria, Bahr el Ghazal, and other parts of the country.

The council condemned the killing of civilians in the gold mining area of Khor Galtan, Central Equatoria State, on 28 March 2026, an attack that left 37 people dead and many others wounded.

During a roundtable discussion on Eye Radio, Chief Charles Mogga Baba, Deputy Chairperson of Kajo‑Keji County, expressed deep concern about the security situation:

“We, the Chiefs of Greater Yei, are deeply concerned about the current situation unfolding in our country. Many of our fellow Chiefs are dying from heart attacks due to the stress and turmoil. We did not fight tirelessly to liberate this nation so that it could be divided, shed blood, or become a place of violence among its own people, ” he said.

“We strongly condemn the events that took place in Khor Galtan (Jebel Iraq). We urge the country’s leaders to prioritize the safety and security of civilians, for if they fail to do so, the true meaning and value of our independence will be lost. Our youth are the future of this nation, and these insecurities should not be exploited or carried out by them.”

“The ongoing attacks are creating fear and despair in our communities. Chiefs are struggling to console families who have lost loved ones, and the psychological impact is severe. The government must act before the situation escalates further.”

Echoing this concern, Elias Barnaba, Chairperson of Kupera Payam in Lainya County, highlighted that the recent violence does not reflect the values of the South Sudanese people:

“On behalf of the Greater Yei Council of Chiefs, representing the four counties of Central Equatoria State, we extend our heartfelt condolences for what happened in Khor Galtan. The violence we witnessed does not reflect our culture, norms, or aspirations. Such actions do not serve our progress or unity.”

“We urge community members and leaders alike to promote dialogue and understanding. Unity is the only path forward if we are to protect our young people and secure the future of our nation.”

Joseph Hakim Yokwe, Information Secretary for Kenyi Payam, called on authorities to take decisive measures to prevent future attacks:

“We also appeal to authorities to prevent such heinous incidents from recurring, not only in Central Equatoria but across Bahr el Ghazal and Upper Nile regions. These regions have all contributed to the independence of this country. We separated from the North with the hope of enjoying freedom and development. However, the ongoing turmoil is shocking and unacceptable. It is time to reflect and take decisive action to restore peace, security, and progress for our nation.”

“It is essential that the government strengthens security and collaborates with local leaders. Without a coordinated effort, incidents like Khor Galtan will continue, undermining both peace and development in our country.”

Legal Advisor Moses Eli called for collaboration between the government and traditional leaders:

“We call on the Ministry of Local Government and law enforcement agencies to work closely with traditional Chiefs. Chiefs are vital links to the local communities and are essential for effective service delivery. Without their collaboration, it will be very difficult to implement policies and maintain peace in our areas. Chiefs understand the challenges faced by young people, and their involvement is crucial in addressing these issues. Isolating them only hampers our efforts to understand and resolve the problems facing our youth.”

“Traditional leaders can help identify early warning signs of conflict. Engaging Chiefs in security planning is not optional — it is critical if we want to prevent further loss of life and build sustainable peace.”

Founded in 2022, the Greater Yei Council of Chiefs represents four counties in Central Equatoria State and works to strengthen relationships between local communities and the government. Continue reading “Greater Yei chiefs appeal for peace after Khor Galtan attack”

DR Congo to take migrants deported from US

Posted on April 6, 2026April 6, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has agreed to accept migrants deported from the United States who are not Congolese, officials said under a deal taking effect this month, the BBC has reported.

The Ministry of Communication said a temporary reception system has been established, with facilities in the capital, Kinshasa, prepared to accommodate arrivals.

“Logistical and technical support” for the program will be provided by the United States, the statement added, noting that the Congolese government will bear no financial cost for the initiative.

Authorities did not specify how many deportees would be received. Washington has previously sent deportees to several other African countries as part of its broader immigration enforcement measures.

Amid concerns about the fate of migrants, Congolese officials confirmed that no transfers back to their home countries — where some face potential persecution — are planned.

The government emphasized that the reception of so-called third-country migrants aligns with DRC’s commitment to human dignity, international solidarity, and the protection of migrants’ rights. Officials also clarified that the scheme is not a permanent relocation mechanism nor a way to outsource migration policy.

The BBC has reported that it contacted the U.S. State Department and Department of Homeland Security for comment, but had not received a response at the time of publication.

Western Bahr el Ghazal prepares police force ahead of 2026 elections

Posted on April 6, 2026April 6, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

Authorities in Western Bahr el Ghazal State have begun preparations to strengthen security ahead of the general elections expected in December 2026.

State police spokesperson Lt. Col. Santino Udhuol said the state police command has been directed by the Juba general headquarters to train 1,000 professional officers to support and secure the electoral process.

“We are training our police personnel ready to receive the coming general election in December 2026. And so far the general headquarters has directed the state police command to train 1,000 professional police to be ready to cover the electoral process that is scheduled for us in December 2026,” he said.

The preparations come as President Salva Kiir maintains that South Sudan will hold the elections as planned, while regional peace guarantors have warned that credible polls will depend on consensus, legal reforms, and adequate preparations.

Lt. Col. Udhuol added that the police are focusing on ensuring that officers are properly trained and deployed to maintain safety and stability during the electoral period. Continue reading “Western Bahr el Ghazal prepares police force ahead of 2026 elections”

VP Hussein challenges Unity State leaders over failure to restore peace

Posted on April 6, 2026 by Memoscar Lasuba

Vice President and Chairperson of the Service Cluster Hussein Abdelbagi Akol has criticized leaders from Unity State for failing to bring peace to their communities, saying divisions are driving continued violence and instability.

Speaking during the third memorial service of the late Sultan Robert Tungwar Kueigwong Reat in Juba, Abdelbagi singled out senior figures, including Taban Deng Gai, and questioned their role in addressing clashes in Bentiu.

“I asked him, you are a prominent figure in Bentiu… what is the reason for the killings happening between neighbours?” Abdelbagi said. “His response did not convince me. Saying he cannot travel there is just talk.”

He said the continued lack of unity among leaders and communities has led to insecurity, lost opportunities, and ongoing conflict in Unity State.

Abdelbagi added that divisions among young leaders from Bentiu, especially those in Juba, have weakened their influence, leaving the area with fewer government positions and missed development opportunities.

“When there is unity among the people of Bentiu, there will be development,” he said. “But without unity, there will be no development or even jobs—only death because you are divided.”

He called on leaders and citizens to take responsibility for restoring peace and to work together to end the violence.

Abdelbagi also said he will engage all parties, including members of the SPLM-IO, to help bring stability to Unity State.

He urged residents of Bentiu to support peace efforts and work with leaders to rebuild their communities and promote development. Continue reading “VP Hussein challenges Unity State leaders over failure to restore peace”