Alfred Futuyo Karaba, Governor Western Equatoria state. (Courtesy).

Western Equatoria governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba, has directed the commissioners of greater Mundri counties to remove illegal checkpoints with immediate effect.

Governor Futuyo issued a verbal directive to Mvolo, Mundri West, and Mundri East County commissioners while addressing locals Mvolo County on Monday.

It’s not clear if the checkpoints have been removed as directed by the governor.

Futuyo said the dozens of checkpoints along the highway from Mvolo County to Jambo Payam of Mundri East County are disrupting trade, civilians and humanitarian movement in the state.

In January 2024, the governor pledged to address alleged extortion against travelers by members of the organized forces deployed along Juba-Mundri Road.

His response followed concerns from citizens, highlighted in an open later to the CES and WES governors posted online, expressing concerns over the excessive number of roadblocks by soldiers.

The letter stated that troops were collecting money from road users without providing official receipts and were causing inconveniences, delays, and frustration for commuters and businesses alike.

Illegal checkpoints have persisted across the country despite repeated calls to end the practice.

Humanitarian Minister Albino Akol Atak said in December 2023 that illegal checkpoints across the country are making delivery of humanitarian aid to needy populations difficult and expensive.

The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan also expressed concerns over taxations along highways in the country, saying the situation hinders the delivery of humanitarian goods and services.

Anita Kiki Gbeho called for joint efforts to ensure that the communities themselves understand the importance of humanitarian assistance moving safely.