[PRESS RELEASE] – Commissioner: Morobo Still Under State Control

(MOROBO COUNTY) – The Commissioner of Morobo County has stated that the area remains firmly under the control of the Government of the Republic of South Sudan, while dismissing recent claims by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) as false and misleading.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Commissioner Charles Data Bullen said there was no truth to reports that the SPLA-IO had captured towns such as Bazi and Kaya. He described these claims as a deliberate effort to instil fear and confusion among residents and disrupt ongoing development efforts in the county.

The statement follows a period of heightened tension in parts of Morobo, including a deadly attack in Bazi last Friday and the killing of a Kenyan engineer. Despite these isolated incidents, the commissioner stressed that there has been no loss of territorial control.

He praised the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) for their continued presence and vigilance in maintaining peace and stability in the county. He confirmed that security forces are in full control of all areas, including those mentioned in the SPLA-IO’s statement.

Commissioner Bullen urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily routines. He encouraged community members to cooperate with local authorities and the security forces to uphold peace and order.

“The bravery and professionalism of the SSPDF in responding to security challenges has been commendable,” he said. “We urge all citizens to ignore rumours and work together with local leadership to build community resilience.”

He also reassured humanitarian and development partners that the county government remains committed to supporting uninterrupted service delivery. Efforts to coordinate with stakeholders to improve humanitarian access and stability are ongoing.

The commissioner’s office confirmed that it remains in close contact with national authorities in Juba and relevant agencies to monitor the situation and respond to emerging needs.

Morobo County borders Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and has been one of the more sensitive areas in Central Equatoria due to its strategic location.

Local authorities have frequently reiterated their commitment to restoring full stability, encouraging displaced residents to return and development organisations to continue their work.

The press statement