Morobo Commissioner Condemns Deadly Attack on Construction Workers

(MOROBO COUNTY) – Authorities in Morobo County have strongly condemned a deadly attack on construction workers at the Kendila Bridge project, describing the incident as “barbaric and cowardly.”

According to an official statement issued on Wednesday by County Commissioner Joseph Mawa Okuba, the attack occurred on May 25, 2026, at approximately 6:15 PM at the Kendila Bridge construction site in Gulumbi Payam.

The assault claimed the lives of five construction workers, including one Ugandan project manager and four South Sudanese workers.

Commissioner Okuba expressed deep sorrow over the killings and extended condolences to the victims’ families, colleagues, and affected communities.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to all those who have lost loved ones in this tragic incident,” the statement read.

Morobo County leadership urged residents and stakeholders to remain calm and united during the mourning period, emphasizing the importance of peace and solidarity in the aftermath of the attack.

The statement also reaffirmed the county’s commitment to peace directives issued by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, which promote dialogue and national unity.

Officials issued a strong appeal to armed groups, particularly the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), urging them to cease attacks on contractors and civilians, respect development initiatives, honor commitments under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS)

“All parties must respect peace agreements and uphold commitments toward lasting stability,” the statement emphasized.

The county clarified that South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) deployed to the Kendila area are not engaged in combat operations. Instead, their role is to protect construction workers and safeguard development projects, ensure safety at the site

Officials stressed that projects like the Kendila Bridge are critical for local development and should not be disrupted by violence.

In a separate statement issued Wednesday, SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces General Santino Deng Wol reported that, despite ongoing peace efforts, hostile actions persist. He accused elements of the SPLA-IO and affiliated groups of carrying out attacks on SSPDF positions in Waat and Motot (Jonglei State) Morobo County (Central Equatoria State)

The military described these incidents as serious ceasefire violations that threaten progress toward lasting peace.

Meanwhile, the Central Equatoria State Committee, during its meeting on Tuesday chaired by Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede, also condemned the attack on the strongest terms.

The committee extended condolences to the bereaved families and directed the Morobo County Commissioner, in coordination with security forces, to intensify efforts to ensure the safety of civilians and their property.

As of the time of reporting, the SPLA-IO had not issued an official statement regarding the attack in Morobo County.

The Kendila Bridge project is considered a vital infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity and economic activity in the region, making the attack a significant setback for local development efforts.