THE AFRICA TIMES | SOUTH SUDAN —
Celebrations in Leer County, Unity State, were disrupted. The event marked the appointment of James Kuol Tap as the new commissioner. Gunshots were allegedly fired by relatives of the former commissioner, Stephen Taker Riak Dong.
Political Tensions Rise
President Salva Kiir’s decision to remove Riak Dong has heightened political tensions. The incident occurred on Saturday. It underscores existing divisions within the county.
Authorities reported that relatives and associates of the former commissioner confronted residents. These residents had gathered to celebrate the new leadership.
Escalation of Violence
Verbal confrontations quickly escalated, leading to gunfire. Celebrators fled for their safety. The incident has raised concerns about stability in the region.
Investigations revealed that the firearm allegedly came from Stephen Gai Yar. Yar is the chairperson of the Traders’ Union. He was arrested shortly after the incident.
Arrest and Investigation
Gai reportedly admitted to providing his gun to individuals loyal to Riak Dong. He was taken into custody at his shop. Authorities continue to investigate the source of the conflict.
Brig. Gen. Samuel Machul confirmed Gai’s arrest on Sunday. Machul stated that Gai played a direct role in the attack. Investigators transferred Gai to the county administration offices after their initial inquiry.
Machul indicated that calm had returned by Sunday. However, the primary suspect who fired the shots remains at large. Police are actively searching for this individual.
Community Response
The attack highlights the deep divisions following the leadership change in Leer County. Supporters of Riak Dong have expressed anger, creating heightened tensions.
Local authorities are urging community elders and political figures to defuse the situation. The goal is to prevent further escalation as the county transitions to new leadership.
Police appealed to the suspect to surrender. Investigations are ongoing to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the disruption.
