JUBA — A coalition of Western diplomatic missions in South Sudan has issued a stern demand for accountability following the brutal March 1 assault on Abiemnom County in the Ruweng Administrative Area, which resulted in the deaths of at least 169 people.
The European Union delegation and several embassies released a joint statement today, March 5, 2026. They included the United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The statement expressed “appall” at the scale of the atrocities. They urged the transitional government to hold the perpetrators accountable.
The Massacre: Impact and Casualties
The dawn raid, characterized by its extreme violence, reportedly targeted both high-ranking officials and vulnerable civilians.
Officials Targeted: The victims included the County Commissioner of Awarpiny and other senior local authorities who were killed during the initial phase of the assault.
Civilians and Families: Diplomats highlighted that many of those killed were women and children. Over 1,000 residents were forced to flee as homes and markets were set ablaze.
Death Toll Rising: While 169 died on the spot, additional victims have since succumbed to their injuries in hospitals in Abyei, where dozens were referred for specialized trauma care.
Diplomatic Pressure on South Sudan’s Leadership
The joint declaration places direct responsibility on the nation’s political leaders. They must prevent such “recurring insecurity” from derailing the 2026 election roadmap.
“South Sudan’s leaders have to work together to end violence and reset peace across the country. Those responsible for these atrocities must be held to account.”
Unity State Denials and Investigations
The diplomatic pressure comes amid a growing row between neighboring state administrations. Local survivors and Ruweng officials alleged that the attackers were armed youth from Mayom County. Yet, the government of Unity State has issued a categorical denial. Unity State authorities have, nevertheless, pledged to investigate the incident and cooperate with security forces to find the culprits.