The Jonglei State Government has condemned the killing of Akobo County Commissioner Hon. James Kueth Makuach, the county’s Executive Director Tut Chaj Riek, and Brigadier General Chuol Pathot during an attack in Walgak on Sunday.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Communication, the state government expressed “profound sorrow and deep condemnation” over what it described as the assassination of public officials and civilians.

The Government of Jonglei State strongly condemns this heinous and cowardly act of violence against civilians and public officials,” the government said.

It warned that such acts undermine peace, threaten public security and weaken the rule of law.

“Violence and political intolerance have no place in a democratic society and must never be used as instruments for resolving political differences, “the statement further said.

According to the statement, the attack was allegedly carried out by “disgruntled elements of SPLM-IO under the leadership of Oyet Nathaniel Pierino.” The allegation has not been independently verified.

The Jonglei government called on the national government and peace partners to condemn the incident, support accountability efforts and strengthen the protection of civilians.

It also urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint, saying: “Political competition must be conducted through peaceful and lawful means.”

The government appealed to residents of Akobo County to remain calm and cooperate with security authorities.

It extended condolences to the families of Hon. James Kueth Makuach, Tut Chaj Riek, Brigadier General Chuol Pathot, and all those affected by the attack.