No judges, no aid, and rising fears: Civil society sounds alarm over Tambura

YAMBIO – Civil society organizations in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State have raised urgent concerns over the absence of judicial services, limited humanitarian assistance, and growing security anxieties in Tambura County, warning that unresolved governance and protection gaps could undermine the area’s fragile recovery from last year’s violence.

The warning was issued Tuesday after the Western Equatoria Civil Society Network paid a courtesy visit to Governor James Al-Taib Jazz Berapai, following a fact-finding mission to Tambura and neighbouring counties to assess post-conflict conditions on security, justice, and humanitarian needs.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Wanga Emmanuel, Executive Director of Vision South Sudan and Chairperson of the Civil Society Network, said the delegation found that while overt violence has reduced, the foundations for lasting peace remain weak.

“We noted some level of calm in Tambura, and the communities are yearning for peace, reconciliation, and development after the violence they experienced last year,” Wanga said. “But without justice, protection, and basic support, this calm remains fragile.”

A central concern raised by the group is the total absence of judges in Tambura County, which has left criminal and human rights cases pending for months. Civil society leaders warned that the lack of functioning courts is eroding public confidence in the rule of law and fueling grievances in a community still recovering from conflict.

“Tambura currently has no judges. Justice delayed is justice denied,” Wanga said. “People have nowhere to seek redress. This is breeding frustration and mistrust in state institutions.”

Humanitarian conditions were described as equally alarming. According to the delegation, returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are struggling to survive, with limited access to food, shelter, healthcare, and other essential services. Civil society groups said inadequate support is slowing reintegration efforts and increasing vulnerability among women, children, and the elderly.

“Many families have returned to destroyed homes with no assistance. Others remain displaced with no clear support systems,” Wanga said. “Without urgent humanitarian intervention, the suffering will deepen.”

The network also warned of rising security fears linked to the alleged presence of Ambororo nomadic cattle herders in Ibba and Maridi counties. With the farming season approaching, civil society groups cautioned that unresolved tensions between farmers and herders could spark fresh violence and spill into Tambura and the surrounding areas.

“If this issue is not addressed urgently, it may trigger new conflicts and reverse the fragile peace that communities are trying to rebuild,” Wanga warned.

Further compounding anxieties is the reported closure of the UNMISS base in Tambura. Civil society representatives said the withdrawal has heightened fear among residents and displaced persons who relied on the UN mission for protection and early warning against security threats.

“The presence of UNMISS has been critical for civilian protection. Its closure has left people feeling exposed,” Wanga said, calling for clear communication on alternative protection arrangements.

The delegation also urged the state government to increase community consultations and inclusive decision-making on justice, security, and humanitarian responses.

In response, Governor James Al-Taib assured civil society actors that their concerns had been received and that the state government is engaging relevant stakeholders to find solutions.

“All the reports have been received. Consultations will continue, and these issues will be addressed in the interest of peace, justice, and protection of civilians across Western Equatoria State,” the governor said.

Tambura has been a restive county with complex conflict dynamics rooted in inter-elite politics but manifesting as subnational, often ethnic, violence involving the Zande and Balanda tribes.

Since mid-2021, the conflict caused massive displacement, killings, and destruction, with UNMISS and local leaders trying to mediate through dialogue and accountability measures amidst persistent instability and humanitarian crises.

With calm returning and residents returning voluntarily to restart their livelihoods, civil society groups fear that without judges, aid, and credible protection, the hard-won gains could be undone.