TRAGEDY IN DUWEIM: Wreckage from the January 7 collision that killed 12 South Sudanese citizens. The disaster has prompted urgent calls for the government to secure the safety of its people in Sudan. — Photo: Courtesy

A civil society activist has issued a strong appeal to the Government of South Sudan to take full responsibility for the safety and protection of its citizens in Sudan, following the death of 12 South Sudanese in a recent bus accident.

Speaking on Friday, January 9, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organisation (SEPO), Edmond Yakani, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

He thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for officially confirming the deaths and acknowledging that several other South Sudanese sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

“This is disturbing. This is painful,” Yakani said, adding that the incident underscores the urgent need for government intervention to protect South Sudanese nationals, particularly during their movement from Sudan back to South Sudan.

Yakani warned that more South Sudanese could face forced deportations under harsh and inhumane conditions, noting that similar incidents have occurred in the past. He stressed that ensuring the safety, security, and dignity of returning citizens lies squarely with the Government of South Sudan.

“The government must show responsibility by providing assistance for safe mobility, protection, and secure means of transportation for its citizens returning home,” he said.

Questioning the role of the state, Yakani argued that a government exists primarily to serve and protect its people. “If a government is unable to provide safety and security for its own citizens, then there is a serious question about why that government exists,” he stated.

While acknowledging that South Sudan continues to face conflict, Yekani strongly criticized ongoing wars, describing them as purposeless and contrary to the interests of the people. He urged political leaders to draw lessons from the tragedy and allow peace and stability to prevail.

Yakani also called on the government to urgently support South Sudanese currently stranded in Sudan and to engage with Sudan’s warring parties to ensure that any return process is conducted safely, humanely, and with adequate protection.

He concluded by emphasizing that the lives lost in the bus accident should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize citizen safety above political and military conflicts.
Michael