President Salva Kiir has condemned the brutal killing of South Sudanese civilians in Wad Madani, Sudan, calling the actions of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) “terrorism”.
In a state of the nation address on Friday, Kiir expressed deep sorrow for the loss of innocent lives and conveyed solidarity with the families affected by the tragedy.
The violence, allegedly committed by SAF in Al Gezira State, has left many South Sudanese citizens in a state of grief and disbelief.
“These inhumane barbaric killings of innocent South Sudanese civilians allegedly committed by the Sudanese Armed Forces ignite difficult, sad, and emotional memories. These heinous acts are unacceptable and are comparable only to terrorism in character,” Kiir said.
Acknowledging the historical and cultural ties between the people of South Sudan and Sudan, which are rooted in shared experiences and centuries of coexistence, he said the Sudanese government is obliged to protect South Sudanese.
“It is a known fact that South Sudanese still consider Sudan home. Likewise, many Sudanese citizens consider South Sudan home. This is due to our shared history. Therefore, the government of Sudan is obliged to protect South Sudanese citizens trapped in war zones under its control,” he argued.
The president directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage with the Sudanese Embassy in Juba, seeking an explanation from the Sudanese government.
Kiir demanded an immediate and thorough investigation into the killings, with the inclusion of international human rights organizations to ensure transparency.
While condemning the violence, he urged South Sudanese citizens to maintain peace and refrain from any retaliatory actions which are being recorded in the capital, Juba, and other states against the Sudanese traders and citizens.
“I therefore urge all South Sudanese citizens to remain calm and refrain from retaliation. It is crucial that we do not allow anger and emotions to cloud our judgment and turn against Sudanese brothers and sisters. Let us protect their properties and businesses, we are hospitable people, it’s our duty to offer protection and support to Sudanese refugees who fled the war in Sudan, let them find comfort around you,” he urged.
“Let us trust in the processes of peace and dialogue to resolve this crisis rather than citizens taking matters into their own hands. Any person found looting or intruding into properties and businesses must be held accountable.”
He directed the organized forces to ensure law and order amidst the outrage among the South Sudanese.
“I hereby direct the Chief of Defense Forces, the Inspector General of the Police, the Directors General of the National Security Service to ensure no one takes laws into their own hands. Ensure protection of all Sudanese citizens within the territory of the Republic of South Sudan,” he stated.
The killings in Wad Madani have sparked outrage both within South Sudan and among international observers, calling for urgent intervention and justice for the victims.
The South Sudanese government has vowed to continue pressing the Sudanese authorities for a transparent investigation into the incident.
