By Our Reporter
S.Sudan: A member of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, Hon. Cross Uffo Bazia, was shot dead early Thursday in a violent ambush by unidentified gunmen while traveling between Nagero and Tambura counties. The attack, which occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m., also left a motorcycle taxi driver seriously wounded, sparking alarm and condemnation across the region.
Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Philip Madut Tong confirmed the incident to Radio Tamazuj, stating that the assailants opened fire on the motorcycle transporting the lawmaker.
“The attackers opened fire on the motorcycle, killing one person and injuring another,” Tong said. “The security situation in Tambura remains calm, but we urge the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid unnecessary travel.”
Tong condemned the senseless violence, asking the attackers directly:
“Why are you killing innocent people for nothing? This must stop.”
Political Motivations Suspected
Tambura County Commissioner Mathew Mabenge identified the deceased as Hon. Cross Uffo Bazia, a legislator affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO). Mabenge alleged that Bazia had been working to encourage SPLA-IO members to integrate into the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), a move aimed at promoting political unity in the country.
“Hon. Cross Uffo was ambushed by individuals opposed to his efforts,” Mabenge claimed. “These attackers are known to be aligned with SPLM-IO and were against his move to promote government unity.”
The motorcycle taxi driver who was transporting Bazia was also shot in the attack and is currently receiving medical care. As of now, SPLA-IO officials have not issued any public comment regarding the incident.
Growing Fear & Condemnation
Mary Sungu Yore, the state assembly’s chairperson for information, youth, culture, and sports, strongly condemned the killing and expressed growing concern for the safety of lawmakers and public officials in the state.
“This is a barbaric act. We are mourning the loss of our colleague. Hon. Cross Uffo Bazia was simply heading to his garden when he was ambushed,” Yore stated. “We call on the state and national authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
She also voiced the fear now gripping Yambio and other parts of Western Equatoria.
“We are afraid here in Yambio. If this can happen to one of us, who knows what will happen next?”
Authorities say an investigation is underway, though no group has yet claimed responsibility for the killing.
Pattern Of Violence In Tambura
This latest incident is part of a worrying pattern of violence in Tambura County. Earlier this month, gunmen attacked Tambura Hospital, temporarily forcing the closure of the region’s primary healthcare facility. In another unrelated event, a Catholic priest was shot and killed by unknown assailants, further destabilizing the area.
As South Sudan continues to navigate its fragile post-conflict period, the killing of Hon. Bazia underscores the ongoing risks facing political actors working to bridge divisions. The attack has raised questions about the durability of the peace process and the urgent need for greater security in Western Equatoria and beyond.
