Tension is mounting in South Sudan’s volatile Jonglei state
as minority tribes demand protection in the midst of increasing ethnic violence
and allegations that they are being targeted by larger tribes.
A peaceful demonstration of approximately 35-40 Anyuak
Community members marched toward the main gate of the UN Compound in Bor,
Jonglei’s state capital, on Tuesday October 8th.
The demonstrators held placards and chanted slogans in
support of the Anyuak community.
A representative of UNMISS received the petition and the
demonstrators dispersed.
There are widespread cases of minority tribes, such as
Anyuak and Murle, allegedly being targeted by larger tribes in Jonglei State.
The northeastern town of Akobo was recently the scene of
armed conflict between the Lou Nuer and Anyuak tribes.
Several were killed last week and Warrior Security’s
officers on the ground say the clashes included sustained gunfire and mortar
attacks for several days.
The violence started on October 3rd with
confirmed clashes in both Old Akobo and Dimmah.
The exact number killed is not confirmed but civilians are
among the dead.
Security forces are deployed to the area to prevent further
escalation; however, revenge attacks and larger clashes between the two
communities in the coming days is a plausible scenario.
Warrior Security also has evidence to believe that there may
be an increase in protests by minority tribes towards the UN and government
authorities, as they demand more protection from larger tribes allegedly
targeting them.
Movement to Akobo, Walgak and Waat is not advised at this
time because of a high security risk.
Jonglei has been the scene of South Sudan’s worst
interethnic violence, much of it involving the Lou Nuer and Murle tribes.
The Anyuak are more closely linked with the Murle tribe.
Both Anyuak and Murle are minority tribes found on South
Sudan’s far eastern border with Ethiopia’s remote Gambella region, which is
also inhabited by Anuak and Murle peoples.
